Extract
Documented neurological features of fat embolus syndrome and acute
respiratory distress syndrome following trauma include acute confusion,
headache, lethargy, irritability, seizure, stroke, and coma. These are thought
to result from cerebral embolization and secondary
hypoxemia1,2.
The long-term cognitive effects in patients who recover from fat embolus
syndrome are unclear. We present the case of a patient who recovered after the
development of fat embolus syndrome following an isolated femoral diaphyseal
fracture. Comprehensive neuropsychological testing revealed appreciable and
persistent cognitive dysfunction eighteen months after the initial insult. Our
patient was informed that data concerning the case would be submitted for
publication.