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Neurological complications from fat emulsion therapy
P E Schulz1, S P Weiner, L M Haber
1Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030.
Annals of Neurology
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Fat emulsion therapy can cause neurological issues like seizures and altered mental status in children, even before other symptoms appear. Promptly adjusting the parenteral diet may reverse these serious complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Parenteral nutrition commonly utilizes fat emulsions for caloric and essential fatty acid delivery.
- Fat emulsion therapy offers a convenient method for administering vital nutrients intravenously.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases presented with neurological complications preceding systemic manifestations of fat emulsion therapy.
- Observed neurological issues included focal and generalized seizures, profound weakness, and altered mental status.
Findings:
- Cerebral endothelial and intravascular lipid deposition were identified via biopsy and autopsy.
- Histopathological evidence confirmed lipid accumulation within the brain's vasculature.
Implications:
- Early identification of neurological complications associated with fat emulsion therapy is crucial.
- Altering the parenteral diet may lead to reversible neurological outcomes.
- This highlights the importance of monitoring neurological status in patients receiving fat emulsions.