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Cholesterol Embolization Syndrome From Penetrating Aortic Ulcer
Jennifer Nickol1, Theodore Richards2, Jared Mullins1
1Internal Medicine, Magnolia Regional Health Center, Corinth, USA.
Cureus
|July 24, 2020
Summary
Penetrating aortic ulcers (PAU) can cause cholesterol embolization syndrome (CES), leading to blue toe symptoms. This rare condition, secondary to PAU, highlights a critical diagnostic challenge.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU) is a rare cause of embolization to organs and extremities.
- Cholesterol embolization syndrome (CES) classically presents with pain, pallor, and livedo reticularis, often affecting the toes.
- PAU can disrupt aortic wall cholesterol, leading to emboli.
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