Cholesterol crystal embolization simulating focal myositis

Cholesterol crystal embolization usually produces characteristic skin lesions. We report a case responsible for myositis of the calf without suggestive skin lesions. The outcome in this 58-year-old patient was spontaneously favorable. Cholesterol crystal embolization can produce a range of clinical symptoms, with the skin, kidneys, and eyes being the most common targets. Generalized forms can result in systemic disease. The diagnosis rests on histological findings, and the treatment is symptomatic. Anticoagulants have been shown to worsen the manifestations, whereas antiplatelet therapy may be useful.