Cerebral Fat Embolism Syndrome as Diffuse Susceptibility on Gradient Imaging: Pathologic Correlation in a Patient with Sickle Cell Trait

Fat embolism syndrome is most commonly discussed in the setting of trauma with long bone fractures and orthopedic procedures. We present a case of pathologically proved nontraumatic cerebral fat embolism. Our case emphasizes the close correlation with pathologic findings, the delayed onset of imaging abnormalities, and the key finding of susceptibility from diffuse petechial hemorrhages.