What is lipemic?

Lipemia is a condition characterized by excessive levels of lipids (fats and cholesterol) in the bloodstream, causing the serum or plasma to appear turbid or milky. This is commonly observed in blood samples from individuals who have not fasted for the recommended period before the blood draw, as food intake triggers the release of lipids from the digestive system into the bloodstream. Lipemia can also be caused by other factors, including genetic disorders, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and certain medications. In laboratory analysis, lipemia can interfere with the accuracy of test results, particularly for assays that measure lipids or enzymes, leading to false-positive or false-negative results. As such, lipemia can be managed by ensuring proper specimen collection and handling protocols, as well as by adjusting laboratory assays to correct for the presence of lipids in the specimen.