Plasmapheresis as an Adjuvant Therapy for Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Pancreatitis
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2004
Description
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.
Citation Information
Iskandar, Said B.; and Olive, Kenneth E.. 2004. Plasmapheresis as an Adjuvant Therapy for Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Pancreatitis. American Journal of the Medical Sciences. Vol.328(5). 290-294. https://doi.org/10.1097/00000441-200411000-00010 PMID: 15545847 ISSN: 0002-9629