Multiple cholesterol emboli syndrome--six cases identified through the spontaneous reporting system
M Hauben1, J Norwich, E Shapiro
1Medical Department, Sterling Winthrop Inc., New York, New York, USA.
Angiology
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Multiple cholesterol emboli syndrome (MCES) can present acutely after procedures like cardiac catheterization. Angiographers must recognize MCES in patients with multi-organ dysfunction post-catheterization.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Nephrology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Multiple cholesterol emboli syndrome (MCES) is a rare but serious complication.
- Risk factors include invasive vascular procedures and anticoagulation.
Observation:
- A review of adverse event reports identified six suspected MCES cases.
- Five cases presented acutely during or immediately after intra-arterial catheterization.
Findings:
- Common antecedent risk factors included cardiac catheterization and various arteriographies.
- Frequent clinical manifestations were acute renal failure, hypertension, pain, and livedo reticularis.
Implications:
- Angiographers should maintain a high index of suspicion for MCES.
- Early recognition and consideration of MCES are crucial for patients with multi-organ dysfunction post-catheterization.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) encompasses a spectrum of heart conditions caused by sudden obstruction of coronary arteries, typically resulting from the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque and subsequent thrombus (blood clot) formation. This obstruction can lead to partial or complete blockage of blood flow, causing varying degrees of myocardial ischemia or infarction.ACS includes the following clinical entities:Unstable Angina (UA)Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)ST-Elevation...
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most commonly caused by obstruction of the cystic duct. This blockage prevents bile from draining, leading to gallbladder distension, inflammation, and potentially serious complications. This condition may present acutely or chronically and can happen with or without gallstones.EtiologyAbout 95% of cholecystitis cases are calculous, caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile accumulation and inflammation of the gallbladder...

