A case of cholesterol embolism

Abstract

The occlusion of arterioles by cholesterol microcrystals and subsequent ischemic change give rise to so called cholesterol embolism. Usually cholesterol emboli are released from atheromatous plaque in great arteries by various provoking factors-by direct physical impacts during the cardiovascular interventions, such as CABG (coronary artery bypass graft) and CAG (coronary angiography), and by intricate biologic processes which weakens fibrous cap of atheromatous plaque, such as thrombolytic and anticoagulant therapy. Herein we report cholesterol embolism occurred in a 71-year old man who has underlying atherosclerosis after cardiovascular surgery and follow-up angiography, and concomitant anticoagulant therapy.