title: Spontaneous cholesterol embolization--a rare clinical entity.
abstract: Embolization of cholesterol crystals from atheromatous plaques is a rare entity most often seen after invasive procedures involving manipulation of the aorta. Spontaneous CE has been reported in very rare cases. Peripheral signs include livedo reticularis, muscle pain and palpable pulses. Depending on the site of the responsible plaque, emboli may involve visceral organs and produce a systemic illness. Diagnosis is confirmed using skin, muscle and/or renal biopsies. Surgery is recommended when the atheromatous disease is localized to a unique segment which can be replaced.
authors.affiliation: Divisions of Cardiology, Hôtel-Dieu de France, Beirut, Lebanon.
authors.forename: V A
authors.initials: VA
authors.lastname: Jebara
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Badawi
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Tabet
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: el-Rassi
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: el-Ayle
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Ashoush
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: el-Asmar
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Arid
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sarkis
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Abadjian
mesh_terms: D001027:Aortography; D001706:Biopsy; D001807:Blood Vessel Prosthesis; D017700:Embolism, Cholesterol / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome