Fat embolism syndrome complicating intraarterial chemotherapy with cis-platinum

Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1990 May:(254):294-7.

Abstract

A 19-year-old man with telangiectatic osteosarcoma of the left proximal femur was started on a course of neoadjuvant chemotherapy consisting of intraarterial administration of cis-platinum. Within 72 hours of receiving the first intraarterial dose, the patient developed signs and symptoms of fat embolism syndrome (FES). A physical examination revealed cyanosis, tachycardia, and seizure activity. Laboratory studies demonstrated a pO2 of less than 65 mmHg, lipuria, and a drop in hematocrit of three percentage points. There was no clinical or roentgenographic evidence of pathologic fracture. Tumor necrosis secondary to intraarterial cis-platinum therapy in this patient with osteosarcoma may have caused a sudden release of free fatty acids and embolization of fat macroglobules that precipitated this episode of FES. FES in association with the intraarterial administration of cis-platinum seems not to have been previously reported.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cisplatin / administration & dosage
  • Cisplatin / adverse effects*
  • Embolism, Fat / etiology*
  • Femoral Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Infusion Pumps
  • Injections, Intra-Arterial
  • Male
  • Osteosarcoma / drug therapy*
  • Syndrome

Substances

  • Cisplatin