Essentials of cerebral fat embolism syndrome: A hidden enemy in trauma

Abstract

Fat embolism syndrome typically appears after an asymptomatic period of 24 to 72 hours and is typically manifested by the clinical triad of respiratory failure, neurological manifestations and petechiae, together with analytical alterations such as anaemia and thrombopenia. Respiratory distress is the most common symptom. Cerebral fat embolism is an incomplete form of fat embolism, which does not meet all the diagnostic criteria; in fact, it may appear without the presence of respiratory failure; Therefore, its early diagnosis is a challenge in the trauma patient