Q: Is it necessary to document fat globules in blood drawn from a wedged PA catheter to confirm diagnosis of Fat Embolism Syndrome? (Yes or No)?


Answer: NO

It is not necessary to document fat globules in sputum, urine, or blood drawn from a wedged PA catheter to confirm the diagnosis of Fat Embolism Syndrome. 50 percent of patients with fracture may have fat globules in serum without any sign, symptom or diagnosis of Fat Embolism Syndrome. This misconception probably arises from the notion that debris need to be documented in amniotic fluid embolism in blood drawn from a wedged PA catheter, which in contrast is not necessary in fat embolism syndrome.