Pleural effusion in patients with systemic cholesterol embolization

We evaluated two patients with systemic cholesterol embolization (SCE) associated with the development of pleural effusions. These two patients had evidence of atherosclerosis and presented with livedo reticularis, renal insufficiency, and gangrenous cutaneous changes as manifestations of their SCE. In both cases, closed pleural biopsies demonstrated acute inflammation of the parietal pleura. Our experience with these individuals and a review of the medical literature suggest that pleural injury from atheromatous embolization may occur. Physicians caring for patients with SCE should be aware of the possible association of pleural reactions with this process.