Case Report
Volume: 4 | Issue: 9 | Published: Sep 28, 2020 | Pages: 305 - 307 | DOI: 10.24911/ejmcr/173-1588701005
Bizarre bleeps-a case report of propofol-induced urine discoloration following a single dose
Authors: Alan Michael Greenstein , Daniel Heaton
Article Info
Authors
Alan Michael Greenstein
ACCS (Acute Care Common Stem) Anesthetics Trainee, CT1, Acute Medicine Unit, University College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
Daniel Heaton
Consultant Anesthetist, Department of Anesthesia, University College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
Publication History
Received: May 05, 2020
Accepted: August 25, 2020
Published: September 28, 2020
Abstract
Background: Green discoloration of urine following propofol use is a rare yet benign side effect. While rare with propofol infusions, it is even less recognized following single doses of propofol and can cause anxiety for both patients and healthcare professionals. Case Presentation: This paper presents the case of a patient with alcohol-induced liver cirrhosis who transiently produced green urine following a single dose of propofol at the induction of anesthesia. The exact incidence and mechanism are not known; however, it is thought to be due to the extrahepatic pharmacokinetics associated with propofol metabolism and clearance. Due to its rarity, it can propagate anxiety and lead to unnecessary investigations. Conclusion: Propofol is a very commonly used anesthetic drug. The case highlights that the prompt recognition of this rare adverse effect can prevent unnecessary investigations and provide reassurance to the patient and healthcare providers.
Keywords: Propofol, anesthesia, case report, pharmacokinetics, adverse effects, hepatic dysfunction, green
