title: Cholesterol embolization syndrome following thrombolysis during acute myocardial infarction.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Cholesterol embolization syndrome (CES) is the result of atherosclerotic plaque erosion and subsequent dislodgement of cholesterol crystals from the core of the plaque to the peripheral arteries. The source of emboli is usually located in the aorta, whereas the most commonly affected organs are the skin and the kidneys.
  
  
  METHODS
  The case of a 69-year-old male with cyanotic painful discoloration of his toes following thrombolysis for acute myocardial infarction 1 month previously is presented. Both transesophageal echocardiography and magnetic resonance aortography showed a diffuse ulcerated atherosclerotic plaque in the course of descending thoracic aorta, while a skin biopsy of the cyanotic toes revealed cholesterol crystals in the lumen of the small diameter arteries.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Cholesterol embolizations from the aorta are difficult to treat and may end in renal failure. Since treatment options are limited without proven efficacy, increased awareness by the clinicians is needed.
authors.affiliation: 1st Cardiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 1 St. Kyriakidi Str., Thessaloniki, Greece. dimikon@auth.gr
authors.forename: D M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Konstantinou
authors.forename: Y S
authors.initials: YS
authors.lastname: Chatzizisis
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Farmakis
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Styliadis
authors.forename: G D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Giannoglou
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D017700:Embolism, Cholesterol / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000628:therapy*; D015912:Thrombolytic Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents