title: Fat embolism: a rational approach to treatment.
abstract: Fat embolism following major trauma may be associated with a clinical syndrome with widespread pulmonary and systemic manifestations, the most serious being profound hypoxia with secondary atelectasis, pulmonary edema and pulmonary hypertension, and cerebral depression. Though the origin of the embolic fat is debated, there is evidence to support its origin from both the bone marrow and intravascular chylomicron coalescence.The clinical manifestations are largely explained by a prime assault upon the lung parenchyma and alteration in platelet characteristics.Early recognition and treatment of the condition is essential, adequate oxygenation being of prime importance. Steroids and heparin have been found to be of benefit.
mesh_terms: D001853:Bone Marrow / Q000378:metabolism; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002914:Chylomicrons / Q000378:metabolism; D004070:Digitalis / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004232:Diuretics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004620:Embolism, Fat / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D005592:Fracture Fixation; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000150:complications; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006493:Heparin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal; D050356:Lipid Metabolism; D010102:Oxygen Inhalation Therapy; D008517:Phytotherapy; D010946:Plants, Medicinal; D010947:Plants, Toxic; D010973:Platelet Adhesiveness; D012771:Shock, Hemorrhagic / Q000628:therapy; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000150:complications
chemical_list: D001993:Bronchodilator Agents; D002914:Chylomicrons; D004232:Diuretics; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006493:Heparin