Postembolization syndrome: changes in white blood cell counts immediately after uterine artery embolization.
Postembolization syndrome (PES) after transcatheter uterine artery embolization (UAE) is classically described as including self-limited pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. However, the expected components of PES after UAE might also include leukocytosis, the incidence and magnitude of which have not yet been determined. A retrospective review of 78 patients who underwent elective UAE for symptomatic leiomyomas showed an increase in white blood cell (WBC) counts within 24 hours after the procedure in 86% of patients, with clinically defined leukocytosis (WBC count >11,000/microL) present in 21% of patients. Interventional radiologists and other clinicians involved in the care of these patients should expect such changes and not be alarmed regarding early infectious complications.
Ganguli
Suvranu
S
Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA. sganguli@caregroup.harvard.edu
Faintuch
Salomao
S
Salazar
Gloria M
GM
Rabkin
Dmitry J
DJ
D000328:Adult; D001158:Arteries; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007889:Leiomyoma / Q000628:therapy; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013577:Syndrome; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy; D014599:Uterus / Q000098:blood supply*