Cholesterol Emboli Syndrome

Occlusion of distal arteries by atherosclerotic emboli, resulting in microcirculatory occlusion.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors

Pathophysiology

Aetiology

  • Spontaneous
  • Vascular intervention
    • Aortic clamping
      • Cardiac surgery
      • Aortic surgery
    • Large vessel catheterisation
      • IABP
      • Cardiac catheterisation
    • Peripheral vascular surgery

Clinical Features

Assessment

History

Exam

  • Livedo reticularis
Livedo Reticularis

Investigations

Bedside:

Laboratory:

Imaging:

Other:

Diagnostic Approach and DDx

Management

Goals of management

Resuscitation:

Specific therapy:

  • Pharmacological
  • Procedural
  • Physical

Supportive care:

Disposition:

Preventative:

Marginal and Ineffective Therapies

Anaesthetic Considerations

Complications

Prognosis

Key Studies


References

  1. Dünser MW, Dankl D, Petros S, Mer M. Clinical Examination Skills in the Adult Critically Ill Patient. Springer International Publishing; 2018.