Propofol is insoluble and water and is infused as a mixture with soybean oil, glycerol and egg lecithin. Infusion of propofol in high doses can cause a lipemia.
Propofol = 2,6-diisopropylphenol
When to suspect:
(1) recent blood samples without lipemia
(2) blood sample sent from the ED, OR or ICU
(3) rapid reversal on discontinuation of propofol infusion
A quick phone call can clarify the situation.
Significance:
(1) unnecessary testing to determine cause of the lipemia
