Fat embolism syndrome

Abstract

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) was first described over 150 years ago but, to this day, remains a diagnostic challenge. The incidence is thought to be quite low and the clinical presentation is often protean, characterized by pulmonary, cerebral, and dermatologic symptoms and signs. Most patients have suffered from long bone trauma or undergone orthopedic surgical procedures linking FES to a mechanical mechanism but it has also been associated with an extensive list of medical conditions implicating a biochemical pathway as well. The diagnosis is mostly clinical and requires a high index of suspicion based on the patient population, risk factors, and clinical and radiographic findings. Treatment goals are timely resuscitation and organ system support and the prognosis in generally favorable.