Abstract
We report two cases of cholesterol crystal embolization. In both cases they noticed painful purpura on their soles and toes after undergoing coronary angiography. Histopathologically, needleshaped cholesterol clefts were found within the lumina of the small vessels which were located in the deep dermis and the subcutaneous fat. In one case, the same histological findings were observed in the kidney. Cholesterol crystal embolization is a disease with atherosclerosis. Atheromatous materials are detached by invasive procedures, such as during vascular surgery and arterial catheterization, or after the administration of anticoagulant drugs. These materials cause microemboli at the peripheral small vessels. The common skin lesions are painful purpura, ulcerations on the soles and toes, and livedo reticularis on the legs. A skin biopsy is effective for making an accurate diagnosis of cholesterol crystal embolization.
