Cholesterol embolization treated with corticosteroids--two case reports

Angiology. 2005 Jul-Aug;56(4):497-501. doi: 10.1177/000331970505600420.

Abstract

Cholesterol embolization (CE) is a potentially serious complication associated with invasive arterial maneuvers, in which standard therapy has not been established. We experienced two cases of CE in patients with severe atherosclerosis whose renal function deteriorated within a few months after invasive arterial maneuvers. CE was confirmed either by renal biopsy (case 1) or skin biopsy (case 2). Oral administration of prednisolone at a daily dose of 30 mg (0.4 mg/kg) was effective to improve their renal function. Our observation suggests that corticosteroid therapy may be beneficial in some patients with CE.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arteriosclerosis / epidemiology
  • Cardiac Catheterization / adverse effects
  • Coronary Angiography
  • Creatinine / blood
  • Embolism, Cholesterol / drug therapy*
  • Embolism, Cholesterol / epidemiology
  • Embolism, Cholesterol / etiology
  • Embolism, Cholesterol / physiopathology
  • Glucocorticoids / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prednisolone / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Prednisolone
  • Creatinine