Posttraumatic subarachnoid fat embolism: Case presentation and literature review.

Abstract Fat embolism in the subarachnoid space has a unique pathophysiology and clinical picture when compared to fat embolism syndrome. Lipid deposits in the subarachnoid space—most commonly the sequela of dermoid rupture in the neuraxis—can cause an inflammatory reaction leading to irritation of nearby neurovascular structures. Herein, we report the only case in the United States, to our knowledge, of a patient diagnosed with subarachnoid fat emboli secondary to sacral fracture who initially presented with a normal head CT and subsequently developed visual changes.