Cholesterol crystal embolism--new aspects of an "old" disease

Cholesterol crystal embolism is increasing in frequency due, on the one hand to the aging of population and, on the other hand, to the great extent of invasive cardiovascular procedures, anticoagulant and thrombolytic therapy. Very often it has a protean symptomatology being considered as a "great masquerader". Due to its particular clinical picture it is sometimes misdiagnosed. This article presents the major clinical manifestations, the diagnostic strategy, the methods of prevention and treatment of this disease.