Hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis: A case-based review

Primary hypertriglyceridemia in children and adolescents

Primary disorders of lipid metabolism causing hypertriglyceridemia (HyperTG) result from genetic defects in triglyceride synthesis and metabolism. With the exception of lipoprotein lipase deficiency, these primary HyperTG disorders usually present in adulthood. However, some are unmasked earlier by precipitating factors, such as obesity and insulin resistance, and can be diagnosed in adolescence. Physical findings may be present and can include eruptive, palmer, or tuberoeruptive xanthomas. Triglyceride levels are very high to severe and can occur in the absence or the presence of other lipid abnormalities. Each of the causes of HyperTG is associated with an increased risk to develop recurrent pancreatitis and some may increase the risk of premature cardiovascular disease. Adoption of a healthy lifestyle that includes a low-fat diet, optimizing body weight, smoking avoidance/cessation, and daily physical activity is the first line of therapy. Pharmacologic therapies are available and can be beneficial in select disorders. Here, we review the causes of primary HyperTG in children and adolescents, discuss their clinical presentation and associated complications including the risk of pancreatitis and premature cardiovascular disease, and conclude with management and novel therapies currently in development. The goal of this article is to provide a useful resource for clinicians who may encounter primary HyperTG in the pediatric population.

Maternal inheritance of severe hypertriglyceridemia impairs glucose metabolism in offspring

Maternally inherited familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) impairs glucose metabolism and increases cardiovascular risks in the offspring to a greater degree than paternal inherited FH. However, it remains unknown whether hypertriglyceridemia affects glucose metabolism via inheritance. In this study, we sought to compare the impact of maternally and paternally inherited hypertriglyceridemia on glucose and lipid metabolism in mice. ApoCIII transgenic mice with severe hypertriglyceridemia were mated with non-transgenic control mice to obtain 4 types of offspring: maternal non-transgenic control and maternal transgenic offspring, and paternal control and paternal transgenic offspring. Plasma triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and fasting insulin (FINS) were measured. ApoCIII overexpression caused severe hypertriglyceridemia, but the transgenic female mice had unaltered fertility with normal pregnancy and birth of pups. The 4 groups of offspring had similar birth weight and growth rate. The plasma TG of maternal and paternal transgenic offspring were nearly 40-fold higher than maternal and paternal control mice, but there was no difference in plasma TG between maternal and paternal transgenic offspring. Although the FPG of the 4 groups of animals had no difference, the maternal transgenic mice showed impaired glucose tolerance, increased FINS levels and higher homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) than the other 3 groups. In conclusion, maternally inherited hypertriglyceridemia in ApoCIII transgenic mice displayed impaired glucose tolerance, hyperinsulinemia and increased HOMA-R, while paternally inherited hypertriglyceridemia did not have such impacts.

Treatment of hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis with insulin

INTRODUCTION

Hypertriglyceridaemia (HT)-induced pancreatitis rarely occurs unless triglyceride levels exceed 1000 mg/dl. Hypertriglyceridaemia over 1,000 mg/dl can provoke acute pancreatitis (AP) and its persistence can worsen the clinical outcome. In contrast, a rapid decrease in triglyceride level is beneficial. Insulin-stimulated lipoprotein lipase is known to decrease serum triglyceride levels. However, their efficacy in HT-induced AP is not well documented.

AIM

To present 12 cases of AP successfully treated by insulin administration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Three hundred and forty-three cases of AP were diagnosed at our clinic between 2005 and 2012. Twelve (3.5%) of these cases were HT-induced AP. Twelve patients who suffered HT-induced AP are reported. Initial blood triglyceride levels were above 1000 mg/dl. Besides the usual treatment of AP, insulin was administered intravenously in continuous infusion. The patients' medical records were retrospectively evaluated in this study.

RESULTS

Serum triglyceride levels decreased to < 500 mg/dl within 2-3 days. No complications of treatment were seen and good clinical outcome was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results are compatible with the literature. Insulin may be used safely and effectively in HT-induced AP therapy. Administration of insulin is efficient when used to reduce triglyceride levels in patients with HT-induced AP.

Complications following antidotal use of intravenous lipid emulsion therapy

The primary objective is to identify and describe the complications associated with the use of intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) therapy as an antidote for lipophilic drug toxicity. This study is a retrospective chart review of patients treated with ILE at two academic medical centers between 2005 and 2012. Based on previously reported complications, we hypothesized that pancreatitis, ARDS, and lipemia-induced laboratory interference might occur. Clinical definitions of these complications were defined a priori. Subjects treated with ILE who did not develop at least one complication were excluded. A total of nine patients were treated with ILE during the study period, six of whom experienced potential complications as a result of the ILE. Two patients developed pancreatitis, and four patients had lipemia-induced interference of interpretation of laboratory studies, despite ultracentrifugation. Laboratory interference precluded one patient from being an organ donor. Three patients developed ARDS; although temporally associated, a causal relationship between ILE and the development of ARDS cannot be clearly established. As ILE is increasingly used for less severe cases of drug toxicity, clinicians should be aware of potential complications associated with its use. A risk-benefit assessment for the use of ILE should be implemented on a case-by-case basis.

C-reactive protein: rethinking its role in evaluating the severity of hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this study is to evaluate the role of C-reactive protein (CRP) in predicting the severity of hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis (HLAP) compared with non-HLAP (NHLAP).

METHODS

A total of 1073 episodes of acute pancreatitis between July 2009 and June 2013 were retrospectively studied. The clinical characteristics and laboratory data of HLAP and NHLAP were statistically analyzed on days 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6, especially the CRP level.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in CRP levels between HLAP and NHLAP (P < 0.01) on days 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6. The cutoff value for CRP in HLAP should be greater than NHLAP to obtain an accurate prediction of severity. Higher serum CRP levels in HLAP cases were correlated with higher incidences of diabetes and fatty liver and lower incidences in women, elevated very-low-density lipoprotein levels, and lower high-density lipoprotein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The significant difference in CRP cutoff values in predicting severity between patients with HLAP and NHLAP should be noted in the clinic.

[Acute pancreatitis and pregnancy: Cases study and literature review]

OBJECTIVE

To describe issues associated with the diagnosis of acute pregnancy-associated pancreatitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study of cases presenting at our establishment from 2002 to 2012. These cases were defined on the basis of the association of abdominal pain, serum lipase levels three times normal values, or signs of pancreatitis on ultrasound scans carried out on women pregnant at the time of diagnosis. A retrospective analysis of the medical files of these patients was carried out, considering epidemiological and etiological criteria, the treatments administered and maternal/fetal fate.

RESULTS

We identified 10 cases during the study period, corresponding to an incidence of 1/1942. In 70% of cases, the patient was in the last three months of pregnancy. The pain was atypical in 70% of cases and ultrasound revealed biliary lithiasis in 30% of cases. None of the women died. In terms of neonatal morbidity, there were five preterm births, including one of an infant that died at the age of seven days. We then carried out a literature review, from which we determined the most appropriate course of action in cases of acute pancreatitis during pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatitis should be considered in pregnant women with abdominal pains because this diagnosis is easy to confirm and maternal and fetal outcomes are essentially dependent on the early etiological management of this condition. Preterm birth is the predominant factor for neonatal morbidity.

Laparoscopic bariatric surgery for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia

BACKGROUND

It is well established that severe hypertriglyceridemia can lead to pancreatitis. At present, medical treatment for patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia and repeat pancreatitis attacks is not adequate. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of laparoscopic bariatric surgery in these patients.

METHODS

A review of 20 morbidly obese patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia (a triglyceride level of >1000 mg/dL) who received laparoscopic bariatric surgery was performed. The study population comprised 14 males and six females, with an average age of 35.0 years (range 24-52 years), and the mean body mass index was 38.2 kg/m(2) (range 25-53 kg/m(2)). The preoperative mean plasma triglyceride level was 1782.7 mg/dL (range 1043-3884 mg/dL). Four patients had a history of hypertriglyceridemic pancreatitis and 13 patients had associated diabetes.

RESULTS

Of the 20 patients, 17 (85%) received gastric bypass, whereas three (15%) received restrictive-type surgery. Laparoscopic access was used in all of the patients. Hypertriglyceridemia in morbidly obese patients was more commonly associated with male sex and a poorly controlled diabetic state. The mean weight reduction was 25.5% 1 year after surgery, with a marked improvement in diabetes management. As early as 1 month following surgery, the plasma mean triglyceride levels had decreased to 254 mg/dL (range 153-519 mg/dL), and this was further reduced to mean levels of 192 mg/dL (range 73-385 mg/dL) 1 year after surgery. One patient developed acute pancreatitis during the perioperative period, but none of the patients suffered an episode of pancreatitis in the follow-up period (from 6 months to 13 years).

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery can be successfully used as a metabolic surgery in severe hypertriglyceridemia patients at risk of acute pancreatitis. However, control of triglyceride levels prior to bariatric surgery is indicated.

Familial chylomicronemia syndrome related chronic pancreatitis: a single-center study

BACKGROUND

Hypertriglyceridemia induces acute recurrent pancreatitis, but its role in the etiology of chronic pancreatitis (CP) is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, laboratory and radiological findings of 7 patients with CP due to type 1 hyperlipidemia compared to CP patients with other or undefined etiological factors.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical, laboratory and radiological findings of 7 CP patients with type 1 hyperlipidemia compared to CP patients without hypertriglyceridemia. These 7 patients had multiple episodes of acute pancreatitis and had features of CP on abdominal CT, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and/or endoscopic ultrasonography.

RESULTS

All CP patients were classified into two groups: a group with type 1 hyperlipidemia (n=7) and a group with other etiologies (n=58). The mean triglyceride level was 2323+/-894 mg/dL in the first group. Age at the diagnosis of CP in the first group was significantly younger than that in the second group (16.5+/-5.9 vs 48.3+/-13.5, P<0.001). The number of episodes of acute pancreatitis in the first group was significantly higher than that in the second group (15.0+/-6.8 vs 4.0+/-4.6, P=0.011). The number of splenic vein thrombosis in the first group was significantly higher than that in the second group (4/7 vs 9/58, P=0.025). Logistic regression analysis found that younger age was an independent predictor of CP due to hypertriglyceridemia (r=0.418, P=0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Type 1 hyperlipidemia appears to be an etiological factor even for a minority of patients with CP. It manifests at a younger age, and the course of the disease might be severe.

Hypertriglyceridemic Pancreatitis Caused by the Oral Contraceptive Agent Estrostep

Norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol (Estrostep; Warner Chilcott, Rockaway, New Jersey) is an "estrophasic" type of oral contraceptive, which combines a continuous low progestin dose with a gradually increasing estrogen dose. In clinical trials, this medication failed to produce clinically significant changes in serum lipid levels. We report a case of severe hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis in a 24-year-old woman caused by Estrostep, occurring nearly 10 years after she began using the drug. The patient was admitted to the medical intensive care unit (ICU) for aggressive volume resuscitation and management of severe electrolyte abnormalities. Laboratory studies obtained on admission indicated severe hypertriglyceridemia (2,200 mg/dL), hyponatremia (120 mEq/L), and hypocalcemia (0.78 mmol/L). Amylase and lipase levels were also elevated (193 and 200 U/L, respectively). Ranson score calculated after 48 hours of admission was 4, and her Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) IV score was 35. Treatment included an insulin infusion, ω-3 fatty acid esters, and gemfibrozil. The insulin infusion reduced serum triglyceride levels by 50% after 1 day of treatment and to 355 mg/dL by day 7 of her ICU course. We believe that this is the first reported case of severe, acute hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis caused by this medication.

Determining triglyceride reductions needed for clinical impact in severe hypertriglyceridemia

BACKGROUND

Patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and pancreatitis. Target triglyceride levels associated with clinical benefit for patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia are not currently known. This study evaluates the association between lower follow-up triglyceride levels and incidence of clinical events for patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia.

METHODS

By using claims data from 2 large US healthcare databases, we conducted a retrospective cohort study and identified 41,210 adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia (triglycerides ≥ 500 mg/dL) between June 2001 and September 2010. The date of the first severe hypertriglyceridemia laboratory result was the index date. Patients were categorized into 1 of 5 triglyceride ranges (<200 mg/dL, 200-299 mg/dL, 300-399 mg/dL, 400-499 mg/dL, and ≥ 500 mg/dL) based on a follow-up triglyceride level assessed 6 to 24 weeks after initial triglyceride levels were measured. Adjusted Cox regression models were developed to evaluate the impact of follow-up triglyceride levels on rates of pancreatitis episodes and cardiovascular events.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients was 50 years, 72% were male, and the mean follow-up was 825 days. Patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia with follow-up triglyceride levels <200 mg/dL experienced a lower rate of pancreatitis episodes (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.34-0.60) and cardiovascular events (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 0.71; 95% confidence interval, 0.64-0.78) with some clinical benefit in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia with follow-up triglyceride levels 200 to 299 mg/dL and 300 to 399 mg/dL (P < .001 for trend).

CONCLUSIONS

We observed the greatest impact on clinical events among patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia with the lowest follow-up triglyceride levels.

Hypertriglyceridaemia-Induced Acute Pancreatitis: Is Plasmapheresis Really Indicated? 3C00

A 47-year-old man presented with severe acute pancreatitis, thought to be hypertriglyceridaemia-induced. Serum triglyceride concentration fell from 42.4 mmol/L to 5.9 mmol/L by day three with fasting alone. Hypertriglyceridaemia precipitates a small but significant proportion of acute pancreatitis episodes, especially during pregnancy. Treatment strategies are discussed, with special focus on plasmapheresis. The reduction in serum triglyceride concentration achieved by plasmapheresis is similar to that achieved by fasting alone, or in conjunction with insulin or heparin therapy. It is possible that plasmapheresis may offer the patient more harm than benefit. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to either recommend or reject plasmapheresis in triglyceride-induced acute pancreatitis.

Rosiglitazone attenuates the severity of hyperlipidemic severe acute pancreatitis in rats

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) ligand regulates adipocyte differentiation and insulin sensitivity, and exerts antihyperlipidemic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanisms by which PPAR-γ ligands affect hyperlipidemia with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) have not been fully elucidated. The present study investigated the effects of rosiglitazone, a PPAR-γ ligand, on hyperlipidemia with SAP in a rat model. The hyperlipidemia was induced with a high-fat diet and SAP was induced by the administration of sodium taurocholate (TCA). The hyperlipidemia was shown to aggravate the severity of the sodium taurocholate-induced SAP. However, rosiglitazone demonstrated significant antihyperlipidemic and anti-inflammatory effects in the rats with high-lipid diet-induced hyperlipidemia and SAP.

Acute pancreatitis secondary to hyperlipidemia in an 11-year-old girl: a case report and review of literature

We report the case of an 11-year-old female with acute pancreatitis, and review the literature highlighting the presenting symptoms and signs, laboratory tests, and investigational tools that helped in the establishment of a correct diagnosis. First, the patient presented to a regional hospital reporting abdominal pain, vomiting and liquid stool. She was admitted with the diagnosis of acute surgical abdomen and underwent surgery. Upon admission in our department, laboratory findings showed high values for total lipids = 2600 mg/dL and triglycerides 1200 mg/dL. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a pancreas with a small enlargement of the head (19 mm), and with a heterogeneous structure of the parenchyma. Abdominal computed tomography showed small left pleural collection and a high-dimensioned pancreas, particularly at the head, with heterogeneous structure, and peripancreatic collections. The patient was treated by fasting, gastric decompression by nasogastric tube, and intravenous antibiotherapy followed by antialgic and antispasticity treatment. Time of the patient's first feeding was after the 7th day of hospitalization. The patient was discharged in a very good condition after 22 days of hospitalization.

Hypertriglyceridaemia-induced pancreatitis

Hypertriglyceridaemia is the third most common cause of acute pancreatitis but is relatively rare and therefore requires a high level of clinical suspicion to be diagnosed. We discuss the case of a 46-year-old man who initially presented to the accident and emergency department with suspected first presentation of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and a normal amylase but who did not respond to DKA treatment. Further history revealed significant cardiovascular risk factors, examination showed an evidence of hyperlipidaemia and investigations revealed acute pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridaemia. We discuss the causes of hypertriglyceridaemia, the difficulty in differentiating primary versus secondary hypertriglyceridaemia, possible pathogenesis and current evidence-based treatments.

Lipoprotein X in a patient with cholestasis and hypertriglyceridaemia

Hypertriglyceridaemia is an established cause of acute pancreatitis and responds to insulin therapy in addition to lipid lowering medication. We report a case of severe hypertriglycaeridemia of 149 mmol/L in a 36–year–old man with type 2 diabetes who presented to the surgical ward with abdominal pain due to pancreatitis and developed acute cholestasis, jaundice and eruptive xanthomata. His triglycerides improved to 3.8 mmol/L with sliding scale insulin within two weeks of in-hospital stay. However, his total cholesterol remained raised at 23.7 mmol/L. The lipoprotein electrophoresis confirmed the presence of lipoprotein X associated with bile obstruction, which contributed to an increase in total cholesterol. The total cholesterol normalized on improvement of his cholestasis.

Lipemia retinalis: case report and review of the literature

We report the case of a 12-week-old boy presenting with increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Examination revealed lipemia retinalis. Genetic evaluation demonstrated lipoprotein lipase deficiency. The patient was treated with dietary restrictions, which resulted in rapid clinical improvement.

Plasma exchange in the management of a case of hypertriglyceridaemic pancreatitis triggered by venlafaxine

The authors present a case of a young, non-diabetic Caucasian male patient with long-standing depression who had recently been started on venlafaxine. He presented to the emergency department with central abdominal pain, drowsiness and vomiting with a raised serum amylase. He was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis (AP) that was confirmed following an abdominal ultrasound and CT. His initial biochemistry was immeasurable in the first 12 h of admission due to macroscopically visible hyperlipidaemia. In the absence of any other causes of AP, hyperlipidaemia was the most likely aetiology. He was transferred to the intensive care unit where he was managed by lipidic restriction, fluid resuscitation and 3 consecutive days of plasma exchange. Plasma triglyceride levels were reduced from 42.9 to 2.4 mmol/l following plasma exchange. He made a full recovery and at discharge was investigated for familial hypertriglyceridaemia and referred to a multi-disciplinary team for follow-up. His venlafaxine was stopped on admission.

Acute pancreatitis secondary to gestational hypertriglyceridaemia

Gestational hypertriglyceridaemia is a rare cause of acute pancreatitis. Its pathophysiology is incompletely understood. Severity scoring and effective management remain challenging. We report a case of acute pancreatitis secondary to gestational hypertriglyceridaemia. We describe the use of computed tomography to provide an alternative determination of severity, as well as plasmapheresis as a means of treating the condition.

Hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis treated with insulin and heparin

PURPOSE

A case of hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis that was managed with insulin and heparin is reported.

SUMMARY

A 39-year-old Hispanic man arrived at the emergency department with complaints of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting over one day. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed peripancreatic inflammatory changes surrounding the tail of the pancreas, consistent with pancreatitis. Pertinent laboratory test values on admission were as follows: triglyceride concentration, 5366 mg/dL; total cholesterol concentration, 555 mg/dL; amylase concentration, 131 units/L; lipase concentration, 51 units/L; serum glucose concentration, 253 mg/dL; and serum sodium concentration, 128 mmol/L. The patient was diagnosed with hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis. On hospital day 1, the patient was given nothing by mouth and received a 1-L bolus dose of 0.9% sodium chloride injection, followed by a continuous infusion of 0.9% sodium chloride injection at a rate of 125 mL/hr. Subcutaneous heparin 5000 units every eight hours, sliding-scale regular insulin, and gemfibrozil 600 mg twice daily were initiated. On hospital day 2, the patient's triglyceride concentration decreased to 2962 mg/dL, and his blood glucose concentration was 147 mg/dL. Subcutaneous insulin detemir 25 units daily was ordered, and sliding-scale insulin was continued. Due to continued elevated triglyceride levels, the patient was transitioned from subcutaneous insulin to an i.v. insulin infusion at 0.1 unit/kg/hr in addition to an infusion of 5% dextrose. On hospital day 5, the patient's triglyceride concentration decreased to 717 mg/dL; the insulin-dextrose infusion was discontinued. The patient was discharged on hospital day 6.

CONCLUSION

A 39-year-old man with pancreatitis caused by severe hypertriglyceridemia was treated with a continuous insulin infusion and subcutaneous heparin.

Lipid profile changes and importance of low serum α-lipoprotein fraction (high-density lipoprotein) in cases with acute pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common systemic inflammatory disorder of the pancreas. The data related to the lipid changes in patients with AP were insufficient. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relation between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and the other lipid parameters and the severity of the disease in AP cases.

METHODS

Seventy-five cases admitted to the Gastroenterohepatology Clinic with diagnosis of AP were included in the study. Ranson scores and Glasgow scores were used for prognosis. Lipid parameters were evaluated for the first 24 hours and after clinic and laboratory remission.

RESULTS

The causes of the disease among patients included in the study were as follows: 44 biliary origin (58.7%), 14 alcohol dependent (18.7%), 10 idiopathic (13.3%), 6 hyperlipidemic (8%), and 1 endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography dependent (1.3%). Triglyceride (TG) levels of the patients included in the study measured in the first 2 days were significantly higher than TG levels measured after clinic and laboratory remission (P = 0.013). High-density lipoprotein was significantly lower in alcoholic and hypertriglyceridemic AP cases. There was a statistical correlation between HDL and Ranson (P = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

The low levels of HDL in AP cases during acute attack are associated with severity of the disease.

Recent progress in understanding the pathogenesis of severe acute pancreatitis

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an acute abdominal disease that is characterized by sudden onset, quick progression, many complications and high mortality. Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) is still regarded as the main cause of death in SAP patients. Nowadays, the mortality rate for patients with SAP in developed countries is 22.7%. In the early 21st century, the mortality reached 15.60%-23.77% in mainland China. However, the etiology, pathogenesis and pathophysiology of SAP remains unclear, resulting in puzzle or perplexity in choosing and developing treatment strategies for SAP. This paper reviews recent progress in understanding the pathogenesis of SAP.

Hypertriglyceridemia: a case report from diagnostic laboratory, Barasat, West Bengal, India

Hypertriglyceridemia is defined as an abnormal concentration of triglyceride in the blood and has been associated with atherosclerosis, even in the absence of hypercholesterolemia. This case report is of 40-year-old man diagnosed to have hypertriglyceridemia who attended for routine screening in our diagnostic laboratory at Barasat. He was nonsmoker, non-alcoholic, had a reasonable diet with abundant fruits and vegetables, and was on regular exercise. He was not taking any lipid lowering medications. He hailed from Barasat, and was employed in Government sector in Barasat and policeman by profession. His father died at the age of 57 years in a heart attack; but his mother is healthy and now almost 62 years of age, and he has two brothers one elder and another younger to him, both are healthy. His blood pressure was normal, his body-mass index was 27, and his waist circumference was 96 cm and hip circumference was 103. His waist/hip ratio was 0.932. The Biochemical analyses were as follows- Fasting Glucose: 186 mg/dL, Total Cholesterol: 90 mg/dL, Triglycerides: 372 mg/dL, High-density cholesterol: 3.80 mg/dL, Low-density cholesterol: 2.90 mg/dL, VLDL: 83.20 mg/dL, Cholesterol/HDL-C ratio: 23.6:1, LDL-C/HDL-C: 0.07:1. This study revealed the increased prevalence of dyslipidemia to be more prevalent in 31-40 year males, suggesting that this group is at an increased risk of developing CAD leading to young infarcts. Combination lifestyle therapies i.e., enhanced physical activity and dietary modification and therapeutic intervention would help us in the treatment and management of dyslipidemia.

Hypertrygliceridemia-induced Acute Pancreatitis Following Hyperlipidemic Abdominal Crisis

Hypertriglyceridemia is a well established cause of acute pancreatitis (AP). Multiple mechanism are proposed to explain this phenomenon, but the exact mechanism is unknown. Clinical manifestations are similar to other forms of AP. Although amylase and lipase levels exclude the diagnosis of AP in normolipidemic patients, they may be normal in hypertriglyceridemia-induced AP. Further evaluation with imaging studies are needed for diagnosis. A less known entity "hyperlipidemic abdominal crisis" is a prior clinical state before development to AP. We describe a young male patient without any previously diagnosed metabolic disorder presenting to emergency department with abdominal pain and vomiting where normal amylase in lactescent serum was detected. His abdomen computed tomography (CT) was reported as normal. His symptoms were relieved with antiemetic and histamine-2 blocker and he was diagnosed with hypertriglyceridemia and dyspepsia. Readmission with recurrence of symptoms after 3 hours resulted in hospitalization where the second CT showed edematous AP.

Treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia with continuous insulin infusion

Severe hypertriglyceridemia (SH) represents a therapeutic emergency because of the possibility of developing cardiovascular events and hyperlipemic acute pancreatitis (PA). Most patients with SH suffer primary or genetic abnormality in lipid metabolism in combination with a precipitating factor such as uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, and drug intake. The standard treatment of hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) with omega 3 fatty acids and fibrates, along with dietary changes, has no effect on an emergency situation. There are no clinical guidelines to SH, but therapy with insulin, heparin, a combination of both, plasmapheresis, or octreotide have been tested succesfully. We report the case of a 10-year-old girl with clinical acute pancreatitis and diabetic ketoacidosis debut, along with incidental finding of an SH, who had a good outcome after treatment with insulin intravenous infusion.

Hyperlipidemia-associated pancreatitis in pregnancy managed with fenofibrate

BACKGROUND

Pancreatitis is a concerning clinical event during pregnancy, with high morbidity and mortality rates for mother and fetus. Hypertriglyceridemia is considered a rare cause of pancreatitis in pregnancy, with the majority of reported cases being associated with the lipid metabolism disorders.

CASE

We report on a case of hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis in a woman presenting at 32 weeks of gestational age. Her dyslipidemia was not controlled with diet alone, necessitating medical intervention. Fenofibrate was used successfully. Recurrence of pancreatitis during the pregnancy was avoided, and a healthy neonate was delivered at 35 weeks of gestation.

CONCLUSION

Fenofibrate was used safely and successfully during pregnancy in this case of hypertriglyceridemia-associated pancreatitis refractory to conservative measures.

Rapid reduction of severely elevated serum triglycerides with insulin infusion, gemfibrozil and niacin

The conventional methods of treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia are dietary restriction and lipid lowering medications, mainly fibric acid derivatives. In the medical literature, use of insulin infusion to treat hypertriglyceridemia has not been highlighted sufficiently. We report a 53-year-old male who presented with a four-day history of epigastric pain. The patient's clinical history was significant for hypertriglyceridemia, type-2 diabetes mellitus with medication noncompliance, obesity, status post-gastric bypass surgery, and alcohol abuse with prior admissions for detoxification. Physical examination revealed mild epigastric tenderness. Laboratory studies revealed severely elevated serum triglyceride (TG) level (8116 mg/dL). Computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen exhibited no evidence of pancreatitis. Regular insulin infusion was started at 3 U/h and gradually increased to 7-10 U/h. Dextrose infusion was titrated to avoid hypoglycemia and maintain blood glucose levels below 150 mg/dL. Gemfibrozil and niacin were also started. After 24 hours, his TG levels were decreased to 2501 mg/dL. Insulin infusion was continued for about 48 hours. A low carbohydrate diet excluding simple carbohydrates was given. The patient's serum TG levels normalized over a period of one month. Thus insulin infusion can be considered a safe modality of treatment for rapid reduction of serum TG in addition to fibrates and niacin.

Two siblings with familial chylomicronemia syndrome: disease course and effectiveness of early treatment

There are no adequate data that evaluate the safety and effectiveness of lowering triglyceride levels in very young children. The authors report a family with two male siblings, 7 and 4 years old, affected by familial hyperchylomicronemia. The oldest was diagnosed at birth during evaluation of jaundice, and the youngest showed asymptomatic hypertriglyceridemia by 6 months of age. Due to high triglyceride levels, Gemfibrozil (a fibric acid derivative) was started at diagnosis. Close clinical followup and laboratory monitoring of these children showed no side effects from the drug, and the risk of acute pancreatitis was significantly reduced.

Alcohol-induced acute pancreatitis: the 'critical mass' concept

The association of alcohol consumption and acute pancreatitis (AP) has been well documented. Extensive research in the field of alcohol-induced AP has allowed scientists to understand the different aspects by which ethanol may alter pancreatic cellular function. However, despite the recognition and understanding of these proposed mechanisms, the basic question that remains unanswered is that although alcohol is consumed the world over, why is it that only some people develop AP? Epidemiologic data indicates a higher frequency of alcohol-induced AP in geographical locations where surrogate/home-brewed alcoholic beverages are freely available. These surrogate/home-brewed alcoholic beverages contain in addition to ethanol, higher alcohols (e.g. propanol and butanol) and other by-products/contaminants (e.g. acids, aldehydes and esters), the potential of which to induce pancreatic damage has been incompletely studied. Mutations in genes that metabolise alcohol as well as those that protect the acinar cells and the extra-acinar milieu from prematurely activated digestive enzymes (e.g. genetic mutations in SPINK1 or PRSS1 genes) have also been noted in these geographical locations. Based on the available epidemiologic, clinical and basic research data available at the present time, we propose a unifying hypothesis presenting for the first time the 'critical mass' concept. We hypothesise that it is the achievement of a 'critical mass' of damaged acinar cells that is required to trigger off the inflammatory cascade leading to a clinically recognised attack of AP. The consequence of a critical mass of damaged acinar cells is the generation of sufficient mediators to result in clinical AP. While the consumption of alcohol does damage acinar cells, the number of damaged acinar cells does not necessarily reach the 'critical mass' with every binge. Co-factors such a high fat or protein meals are required to sensitize the acinar cells by raising the metabolic state to a high level which compromises the viability of the cells. In addition, the existence of genetic mutations and / or the consumption of surrogate alcoholic beverages, by facilitating acinar cell damage, directly or indirectly, potentially hasten the achievement of the 'critical mass', leading to an attack of AP.

Treatment of hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis with plasma exchange: a single-center experience

Of the cases of acute pancreatitis, 1-7% are caused by severe hypertriglyceridemia and can be treated with plasma exchange (PE). We report on a large series of patients with acute hyperlipidemic pancreatitis (HLP) treated with PE. In the 1992-2008 period, 50 patients (45 +/- 8 years old, 92% male) with acute HLP were treated with PE, during which 1-2 plasma volumes were exchanged. Heparin was used as anticoagulant in 85% of the procedures, and citrate in the rest. Cholesterol and triglycerides were measured before and after PE. In the 2003-2008 cohort of 40 patients, we retrospectively recorded an Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score at the first PE session, hospital mortality, and length of hospital stay. A total of 79 PE treatments were done, 1-5 per patient. The volume exchanged was 4890 +/- 1300 mL over a duration of 3.5 +/- 2 h. During the first PE, the triglycerides were lowered from 58.9 +/- 40.8 to 10.8 +/- 10.8 mmol/L, and the total cholesterol was lowered from 20.0 +/- 7.6 to 5.7 +/- 4.3 mmol/L. In 10% of the procedures the plasmafilter was replaced, and in 3% the filter was clotted. Hypotension occurred in 3% of PE and there was one case of gastrointestinal bleeding after PE with heparin anticoagulation. In the 2003-2008 cohort, the median APACHE II score was 5 (range 0-15), the median overall hospital stay was 18 days (range 3-142 days) and the hospital mortality was 15%. To conclude, in acute hyperlipidemic pancreatitis, one to two plasma exchanges effectively reduce the serum triglyceride level. There is a low rate of procedure-related complications. A mortality rate of 15% is considerable.

[Severe hypertriglyceridemia in diabetic ketoacidosis: case report]

OBJECTIVES

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a recurrent problem in the emergency room that requires prompt and effective treatment. Usually, it may be associated with an increase in triglyceride levels, exposing the patient to the risk of pancreatitis.

METHODS

We report the case of a 38-year-old female patient with diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypertriglyceridemia (triglycerides: 11.758 mg/dL).

RESULTS

The patient was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. Hydration and intravenous insulin were performed with success. During hospitalization, the levels of triglycerides decreased significantly and the levels of amylase and lipase remained at normal ranges, not suggesting pancreatitis. No other Brazilian cases with these levels of triglycerides were found.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that, in diabetic ketoacidosis, lipid profile, including triglycerides, should be requested, due to a not negligible prevalence of complications such as hypertriglycerides and pancreatitis.

Hypertriglyceridaemia-induced acute pancreatitis due to patient non-compliance

A 34-year-old woman presented with acute and progressive pain in the upper abdomen with worsening nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Her pain was described as severe, sharp and stabbing, with radiation to her chest and back. The patient's amylase and lipase levels were only mildly elevated. However, triglyceride levels (10,039 mg/dL) were markedly elevated upon presentation and no other causes of acute pancreatitis (e.g. obstruction, alcohol and medication) were identified. The patient was treated with opioids to control her pain and gemfibrozil was initiated to reduce her triglycerides. In addition, the patient received enoxaparin for deep vein thrombosis prevention and insulin for hyperglycaemia which also have been shown to decrease elevated triglycerides. The patient subsequently required antibiotic therapy with piperacillin-tazobactam after developing fever and an elevated white blood cell count. We review the role of adjunctive therapy with heparin and insulin in a patient with recurrent pancreatitis probably because of hypertriglyceridaemia and medication non-compliance.

Acute pancreatitis and hypertriglyceridemia

Pancreatitis is a condition characterized by painful inflammation of the pancreas and can be either chronic or acute. The most common causes of acute pancreatitis (AP) in the United States are gallstones and excessive alcohol consumption. In addition, significantly elevated serum triglyceride levels can precipitate episodes of AP. Genetic defects are associated with severe elevations in serum triglyceride levels, whereas poorly controlled diabetes, obesity, and high-fat diets can contribute to elevated triglyceride levels substantial enough to provoke pancreatitis (secondary hypertriglyceridemia). Treatment of hypertriglyceridemia-induced AP consists of immediate reduction in serum triglyceride levels and long-term medications and lifestyle modifications. Nurses are instrumental in patient education about lifelong treatment strategies.

Hypertriglyceridemic pancreatitis: presentation and management

Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is reported to cause 1-4% of acute pancreatitis (AP) episodes. HTG is also implicated in more than half of gestational pancreatitis cases. Disorders of lipoprotein metabolism are conventionally divided into primary (genetic) and secondary causes, including diabetes, hypothyroidism, and obesity. Serum triglyceride (TG) levels above 1,000 mg/dl are usually considered necessary to ascribe causation for AP. The mechanism for hypertriglyceridemic pancreatitis (HTGP) is postulated to involve hydrolysis of TG by pancreatic lipase and release of free fatty acids that induce free radical damage. Multiple small studies on HTGP management have evaluated the use of insulin, heparin, or both. Many series have also reported use of apheresis to reduce TG levels. Subsequent control of HTG with dietary restrictions, antihyperlipidemic agents, and even regular apheresis has been shown anecdotally in case series to prevent future episodes of AP. However, large multicenter studies are needed to optimize future management guidelines for patients with HTGP.

Effect of admission hypertriglyceridemia on the episodes of severe acute pancreatitis

AIM: To investigate the effect of admission hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) on the episodes of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).

METHODS: One hundred and seventy-six patients with SAP were divided into HTG group (n = 45) and control group (n = 131) according to admission triglyceride (TG) ≥ 5.65 mmol/L and < 5.65 mmol/L, respectively. Demographics, etiology, underlying diseases, biochemical parameters, Ranson’ s score, acute physiology and chronic heath evaluation II (APACHE II) score, Balthazar’s computed tomography (CT) score, complications and mortality were compared. Correlation between admission TG and 24-h APACHE II score was analyzed.

RESULTS: SAP patients with HTG were younger (40.8 ± 9.3 years vs 52.6 ± 13.4 years, P < 0.05) with higher etiology rate of overeating, high-fat diet (40.0% vs 14.5%, P < 0.05) and alcohol abuse (46.7% vs 23.7%, P < 0.01), incidence rate of hypocalcemia (86.7% vs 63.4%, P < 0.01) and hypoalbuminemia (84.4% vs 60.3%, P < 0.01), 24-h APACHE II score (13.6 ± 5.7 vs 10.7 ± 4.6, P < 0.01) and admission serum glucose (17.7 ± 7.7 vs 13.4 ± 6.1, P < 0.01), complication rate of renal failure (51.1% vs 16.8%, P < 0.01), shock (37.9% vs 14.5%, P < 0.01) and infection (37.4% vs 18.3%, P < 0.01) and mortality (13.1% vs 9.1%, P < 0.01). Logistic regression analysis showed a positive correlation between admission TG and 24-h APACHE II score (r = 0 .509, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION: The clinical features of SAP patients with HTG are largely consistent with previous studies. HTG aggravates the episodes of SAP.

Acute pancreatitis in a cohort of 129 patients referred for severe hypertriglyceridemia

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess retrospectively the prevalence and the predictive factors of acute pancreatitis (AP) in a population of patients referred in our endocrinology department for evaluation of very high triglyceride (TG) levels.

METHODS

One hundred twenty-nine patients (119 with type IV phenotypes and 10 with type V phenotypes according to Fredrickson's classification) were referred to our hospital between 2000 and 2005.

RESULTS

Twenty-six subjects (20.2% of the population) presented with AP. This population was significantly younger at diagnosis of hyperlipidemia (32 vs 40 years, P < 0.001) and at age of investigation (43 vs 48 years, P = 0.05) and had maximum TG levels greater than the population without AP (44.7 vs 24.5, P < 0.001). Subjects of the third tertile of TG levels had a 4.0-fold increased risk (95% confidence interval, 1.3-12.3) of AP compared with the first tertile. Severe pancreatitis (need for intensive care, C-reactive protein >150 mg/L, or Balthazar score >C) was observed in 71.5% of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Twenty percent of patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia experience at least 1 attack of AP. Pancreatitis seems to occur in young patients at higher levels of TG than previously thought (85% of patients >30 g/L) and is associated with a severe clinical course.

Eruptive xanthomas and acute pancreatitis in a patient with hypertriglyceridemia

Acute pancreatitis and eruptive xanthomas are the only recognised direct complications of severe hypertriglyceridaemia. We present the case of a 33-years old male patient in whom the onset of a type 2 diabetes, added to an unknown familial hyperlipidemia, precipitated a dramatic raise of serum triglyceride levels, that cause in turn an acute pancreatitis and the appearance of dermic eruptive xanthomas. TRANSLATION: This article is translated from Spanish, originally published in Archivos de Medicina. The original work is at doi:10.3823/001.

Extreme hypertriglyceridemia following intravenous heparin infusion

We report a case of unexpected extreme hypertriglyceridemia in a 32 year old man following 5 days of intravenous heparin infusion. We believe the cause of the elevation is mainly due to a temporary depletion of lipoprotein lipase caused by heparin. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of such an extreme elevation in triglycerides following prolonged intravenous heparin infusion. The clinical history and details of the suggested mechanism of the hypertriglyceridemia are discussed in this case report.

The inflammatory cascade in acute pancreatitis: relevance to clinical disease

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition that is initiated by the intra pancreatic activation of proteases. Pancreatic enzyme activation triggers a local and systemic inflammatory response that is associated with recruitment of inflammatory cells into the pancreas and a widespread up-regulation of inflammatory markers in distant tissues.