Plasmapheresis as an adjuvant therapy for hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis.
Hypertriglyceridemia is an uncommon cause of pancreatitis. A serum triglyceride level of more then 1000 to 2000 mg/dL is an identifiable risk factor. Interestingly, serum pancreatic enzyme levels may be normal or only minimally elevated in such cases. The reduction of triglyceride level to below 1000 mg/dL effectively prevents further episodes of pancreatitis. The mainstay of treatment for the hypertriglyceridemia associated with pancreatitis includes dietary restriction of fat and administration of lipid-lowering agents. It is thought that within 24 to 48 hours of the onset of pancreatitis, in the majority of patients, triglyceride levels fall rapidly as a result of fasting status, as the absorption of chylomicrons to the blood is cut off. Experiences with plasmapheresis are limited. We report a case of hypertriglyceridemic necrotizing pancreatitis with mildly elevated amylase and lipase, treated successfully with plasmapheresis.
Iskandar
Said B
SB
Department of Internal Medicine, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA.
Olive
Kenneth E
KE
D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D015228:Hypertriglyceridemia / Q000150:complications*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009336:Necrosis; D010195:Pancreatitis / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D010956:Plasmapheresis; D016896:Treatment Outcome