[Challenges in the diagnostic management of fat embolism syndrome - from divergence in clinical presentation to diagnosis]. / Diagnostische uitdagingen van het vetemboliesyndroom.

This article discusses the diagnosis and management of two patients with cerebral fat embolism syndrome after traumatic femoral fractures. Fat embolism syndrome is a condition which is caused by fat globules in the systemic circulation; it most often occurs in patients with femoral fractures. Patients develop systemic dysfunction, particularly a triad of a petechial rash, respiratory and neurological dysfunction. The syndrome is characterized by a diverse clinical presentation which often necessitates a wide differential diagnosis. The pathogenesis of fat embolism syndrome has not yet been fully elucidated. Although it has been a formally recognised clinical diagnosis for years, new diagnostic imaging capabilities have provided a shift towards a visualisable disorder. Presently, there is no clear evidence and indication for dedicated treatment and therefore supportive measures remain the only treatment modality.