Cerebral fat embolism (CFE) is an incomplete type of fat embolism syndrome (FES), a rare clinical condition caused by embolization of fat particles into multiple organs, characterized by purely cerebral involvement.
Keeping this in consideration, can a fat embolism go to the brain?
Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare but a serious clinical catastrophe occurring after traumatic injury to long bones. Cerebral involvement in the absence of pulmonary or dermatological manifestation on initial presentation may delay the diagnosis of cerebral fat embolism (CFE).
Herein, can you see fat embolism on CT scan?
The biochemical theory involves degradation of embolised fat into toxic intermediaries with pro-inflammatory effects. 1 The latter could explain the typical delay of FES symptoms up to 72 hours. CT scan shows multiple areas of consolidation, ground-glass opacities and small (2–10 mm) nodules.
How do you diagnose fat embolism?
There is no one test that can definitively diagnose FES. Despite the presence of fat emboli, imaging tests can look normal. As such, doctors typically rely on a physical examination, medical history (taking into account any recent history of broken bones), and what is known as Gurd’s criteria.
How do you prevent a fat embolism after a fracture?
Some preventative strategies include :
- blood oxygen monitoring to help detect a fat embolism early, before symptoms become severe.
- administering early, aggressive treatment for long bone fractures.
- giving fluids to people who experience serious fractures.
How does fat embolism cause death?
This mechanism is possibly altered or enhanced by biochemical changes in later phases. Pulmonary fat embolism is a disease which may cause death if mechanical, toxic and shock-inducing effects lead to insufficiency of the cardio-respiratory system.
When is a fat embolism most likely to occur?
Fat embolism is most commonly associated with trauma. Long bone and pelvic fractures are the most frequent causes, followed by orthopedic surgery—particularly total hip arthroplasty—and multiple traumatic injuries. Soft tissue damage and burns can cause fat embolisms, although far less frequently than fracture.