Posttraumatic subarachnoid fat embolism: Case presentation and literature review

Fat embolism in the subarachnoid space has a unique pathophysiology and clinical picture when compared to fat embolism syndrome. Lipid deposits in the subarachnoid space —most commonly the sequela of dermoid rupture in the neuraxis—can cause an inflammatory reaction leading to irritation of nearby neurovascular structures. Herein, we report the only case in the United States, to our knowledge, of a patient diagnosed with subarachnoid fat emboli secondary to sacr al fracture who initially presented with a normal head CT and subsequently developed visual changes.

Source: Clinical Imaging - June 18, 2020 Category: Radiology Authors: Rahul Chaturvedi, Ashley Williams, Nikdokht Farid, Tara Retson, Edward Smitaman Tags: Musculoskeletal and Emergency Imaging Source Type: research