Blue toe syndrome - systemic cholesterol crystal embolism secondary to cardiovascular procedures: a forensic autopsy report of two cases

• Published in: Forensic science, medicine, and pathology medicine, and pathology, 2024-11
• Main Authors: Yamada, Atsushi, Kiryu, Kyoka, Takashino, Satoshi, Yoshida, Masaki, Takeichi, Toshiaki, Kitamura, Osamu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1556-2891; 1556-2891
• DOI: 10.1007/s12024-024-00917-1

Blue toe syndrome, also referred to as cholesterol crystal embolism is characterized by the distal embolization of cholesterol crystals originating from ruptured atherosclerotic plaques. This condition commonly arises in the context of cardiovascular procedures. Emboli from the thoracoabdominal aorta primarily affect the downstream extremities and intra-abdominal viscera, often resulting in fatal atheroembolic renal failure. Owing to its insidious and delayed onset, antemortem diagnosis of cholesterol crystal embolism is often underrecognized. Two cases of blue toe syndrome secondary to cardiovascular procedures are presented. In Case 1, the patient died 35 days after coronary angioplasty, whereas in Case 2, the patient developed toe necrosis 95 days after endovascular aortic repair, leading to progressive renal failure over the following five years. A comprehensive forensic autopsy included external examination, skin biopsy, histopathological examination of major organs, and serum biochemical evaluation of renal function parameters. Two cases of blue toe syndrome secondary to cardiovascular procedures are presented. In Case 1, the patient died 35 days after coronary angioplasty, whereas in Case 2, the patient developed toe necrosis 95 days after endovascular aortic repair, leading to progressive renal failure over the following five years. A comprehensive forensic autopsy included external examination, skin biopsy, histopathological examination of major organs, and serum biochemical evaluation of renal function parameters. This report underscores the importance of including systemic cholesterol crystal embolism in the differential diagnosis of blue toe syndrome, particularly in patients with a history of cardiovascular procedures. Fingertips serve as reliable indicators of impaired blood perfusion. To assess blue toe syndrome accurately, we highlight the value of focusing on the toe tips where cholesterol crystal embolism can be consistently detected.