A case of fat embolism syndrome complicated by diffuse alveolar hemorrhage

Abstract

Fat embolism syndrome is a life-threatening condition that may develop after orthopedic trauma and surgery. Fat embolism is caused by lipid droplets in the systemic circulation inducing mechanical or biochemical injury. Diagnosis is clinical and treatment is supportive. Clinical features including respiratory changes, neurological abnormalities, and petechial rashes generally present 12–72 h after the initial injury. However, respiratory failure accompanying diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in fat embolism syndrome is rare. This report describes a 44-year-old male patient suffering from fat embolism syndrome with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage caused by traumatic long bone fracture, in which mechanical ventilation was required to provide respiratory support.