Triglyceride levels after Intralipid infusion in children with cystic fibrosis.

Infusions of soybean oil emulsion (Intralipid) have been reported to correct essential 
fatty acid (EFA) deficiency in patients with cystic fibrosis of the 
pancreas. This article reports the immediate effects of Intralipid infusion in 
patients with CF in an attempt to ascertain through biochemical data 
whether the use of Intralipid at the reported dose is free 
of untoward effects. Six patients with CF were placed in a 
protocol that called for periodic infusions with soybean oil emulsion containing 
EFAs. The first three patients received 2 gm/kg of body weight 
of Intralipid over a four-hour period. The other three patients received 
half that dose over the same period. The first three patients 
developed symptoms of paleness, nausea and mild discomfort two to three 
hours after the infusion. Further information is needed to determine the 
best method of correction of EFA deficiency in children with CF. 
