Acute Pancreatitis, Hypertriglyceridemia, and Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Life-Threatening Triad

Abstract

Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG)-induced pancreatitis is a known complication of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM). However, the coexistence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and acute pancreatitis in the presence of HTG is rare and presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We present the case of a 42-year-old female with poorly controlled type 2 DM who developed severe HTG-induced pancreatitis complicated by DKA. She initially presented with abdominal pain, metabolic acidosis, and marked hyperglycemia. Subsequent investigations revealed significantly elevated serum triglyceride and lipase levels and characteristic findings of acute pancreatitis on imaging. This case report highlights the complex interplay of metabolic disturbances in diabetes and the importance of timely recognition and tailored management to achieve a successful outcome.