Last Updated on November 14, 2025 by
Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS) is a rare but life-threatening complication that can occur with prolonged or high-dose propofol drip in children. This syndrome is often seen in pediatric intensive care units where propofol is used to keep kids calm for extended periods. Awareness and close monitoring are essential to prevent and manage this serious condition.

Using a propofol drip can cause serious problems with the body’s metabolism and heart. This makes PRIS a very dangerous condition if not treated right away.
Recent studies have shown that PRIS can lead to a lot of sickness and even death. This shows how important it is to watch closely and follow the right rules when sedating kids.
Propofol is used to sedate kids in the ICU. But it can cause a serious condition called Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS). PRIS is complex and needs a deep understanding of its causes, how common it is, and its symptoms.
PRIS leads to sudden heart failure, acid buildup, irregular heartbeats, muscle damage, high cholesterol, kidney failure, and big liver. It happens because propofol messes with mitochondria, causing fat buildup and cell damage. Spotting PRIS early is key because it’s very deadly.
PRIS in kids is not as well-studied as in adults. But kids are more at risk from long-term propofol use. The death rate for PRIS in kids is very high, showing the need for constant watch and quick action.
PRIS looks similar in all ages, but kids face more heart and acid problems. The way PRIS shows up in kids versus adults highlights the need for age-based treatment plans.

Knowing these differences is key to creating better treatments for kids at risk of PRIS.
Using propofol infusions in kids can lead to serious issues. It’s key for doctors to know these risks to keep propofol safe.
Studies show that using propofol for more than 48 hours raises the risk of Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS) in kids. It’s important to watch and limit how long propofol is used to avoid this risk.
Using too much propofol, over 5 mg/kg/hr, also raises the risk of PRIS. Managing the dose carefully is key to avoiding problems with high doses of propofol.

Kids who are very sick or have metabolic disorders are more at risk for PRIS. It’s important to be careful with propofol in these cases, looking for other sedation options when possible.
Using propofol with other medicines can increase the risk of problems. Checking for drug interactions and adjusting treatment plans can help reduce these risks.
In summary, knowing these key risks and taking steps like propofol washout techniques can help doctors lower the risks of propofol drip complications in kids.
Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS) in children shows many signs that need quick action. These signs can be very dangerous and affect many parts of the body.
Heart problems are common in children with Propofol Syndrome. These can include bradycardia, arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest. Up to 80% of affected children show abnormal ECG signs.
Metabolic acidosis is a key sign of PRIS. It shows as an anion gap and lactic acidosis increase. This can cause serious issues if not treated fast.
Rhabdomyolysis, or muscle damage, is a big sign of Propofol Syndrome. It happens when propofol harms muscle cells, causing creatine kinase and other enzyme releases.
Hyperlipidemia, or high blood lipid levels, is linked to Propofol Infusion Syndrome. It can lead to more metabolic problems.
The signs of Propofol Syndrome in children vary and can be serious. Spotting these signs early is key to managing them well and avoiding lasting harm.
Knowing these signs helps doctors diagnose and treat Propofol Infusion Syndrome better.
Managing PRIS in kids starts with quick detection and action. This means having a clear plan for diagnosis. Doctors look for signs and lab results to make a diagnosis.
Spotting PRIS early is important. Look out for signs and lab tests that can help. These include:
Creatine kinase and troponin levels show muscle damage. Arterial blood gas analysis helps find metabolic acidosis.
If PRIS is suspected, act fast. The first thing is to stop propofol infusion. Other steps might include:
Stopping propofol is key. It affects the patient’s health. Propofol washout means stopping the infusion and using other sedatives for comfort.
Supportive care is essential for PRIS. This includes:
These steps help keep the patient stable and prevent more problems.
In summary, treating PRIS in kids needs a quick and detailed plan. Spotting it early and acting fast is critical for better results.
Preventing Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS) in children is key. It involves careful patient selection, monitoring, and management. These steps are vital to avoid this serious condition linked to propofol drip.
Doctors need to know the risks, like long infusions and high doses. They should watch for early signs. This includes heart problems and acidosis.
Quick action is needed to treat PRIS. This includes stopping propofol and providing supportive care. By being careful with propofol and following guidelines, doctors can lower PRIS risks. This helps improve care for kids on a propofol drip.
Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS) is a rare but serious issue. It can happen in kids who get too much propofol. Propofol is used to keep kids calm in the ICU.
Kids with PRIS might have sudden heart failure and metabolic acidosis. They might also have arrhythmias, muscle breakdown, high cholesterol, kidney failure, and big liver.
Kids at risk for propofol problems include those on it for over 48 hours. Also, those getting more than 5 mg/kg/hr are at risk. Critical illness, other health issues, and certain medicines also play a part.
Doctors look for early signs and lab results like acidosis and abnormal heart tests. They act fast to help the child.
To treat PRIS, doctors might stop or lower the propofol dose. This helps reduce the bad effects of the drug.
To lower PRIS risk, doctors should pick patients carefully. They need to watch and manage them closely. They should also be careful with propofol, avoiding high doses or long use.
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