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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
09:15
Differential Effects of Lipid-lowering Drugs in Modulating Morphology of Cholesterol Particles
Published on: November 10, 2017
Chronic cholesterol crystal embolism with a spontaneous onset
Mio Enomae1, Shin-ichi Takeda, Keiichi Yoshimoto
1Department of Internal Medicine, Kurobe City Hospital, Toyama.
Internal Medicine (Tokyo, Japan)
|July 20, 2007
Summary
Cholesterol crystal embolism accelerated kidney damage in a patient with atherosclerosis and hypertension. Early diagnosis and treatment with LDL apheresis and corticosteroids stabilized renal function.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- A 74-year-old male presented with hypertension, blue toe syndrome, and worsening renal function over 11 months.
- Initial suspicion of atherosclerosis was complicated by accelerated renal impairment after anticoagulant initiation.
Observation:
- The patient exhibited symptoms suggestive of systemic embolization.
- Renal biopsy was crucial for definitive diagnosis, revealing cholesterol crystal embolism.
Findings:
- Cholesterol crystal embolism was confirmed as the cause of progressive chronic kidney disease.
- Discontinuation of anticoagulants, combined with LDL apheresis and corticosteroids, halted renal function decline.
Implications:
- Cholesterol crystal embolism is a critical differential diagnosis for chronic kidney disease in patients with atherosclerosis risk factors.
- This case highlights the importance of considering embolic causes beyond traditional atherosclerotic disease in renal impairment.
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