Friday, April 29, 2011

Q: What is Fat Embolism Syndrome?


Ans: Fat embolism syndrome usually occur 1-3 days after a traumatic injury and are predominantly



  • pulmonary - shortness of breath, hypoxemia,

  • neurological - agitation, delirium, or coma,

  • dermatological - petechial rash, and

  • haematological - anaemia, low platelets
The syndrome manifests more frequently in fractures of the pelvis or long bones. The petechial rash is the pathognomonic hallmark of the syndrome.

Treatment is supportive.