Plasmapheresis Treatment of Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Hypertriglyceridemia is the third most common etiology for acute pancreatitis (AP), after alcohol and gallstones. Clinical evidence is relatively weak in its support of plasmapheresis for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP). We report a case of severe HTG-AP in a young man who was successfully treated with plasmapheresis. The patient achieved full resolution of symptoms within 48 hours from presentation and was discharged two days later. To our knowledge, no other report in literatures shows such dramatic response to plasmapheresis.

A case report of severe hypertriglyceridemia induced acute pancreatitis managed with continuous insulin infusion

“…However, hypertriglyceridemia, although less frequent, is a recognized cause, occurring in approximately 2-4% of cases. 1 Triglycerides, essential components of fats, are either synthesized in the liver or obtained from the diet. In normal conditions, circulating triglycerides are metabolized into free fatty acids by an enzyme called lipoprotein lipase.…”

“…It occurs when high levels of triglycerides in the blood lead to inflammation of the pancreas. 1 Treating HTG-induced pancreatitis involves reducing serum triglyceride levels to less than 500 mg/dl promptly since the risk of pancreatitis significantly rises when levels exceed 1,000 mg/dl. [3][4][5] Factors such as poorly controlled diabetes, alcohol consumption, certain medications, and genetic factors can contribute to this condition as they affect lipid metabolism.…”

Rapid resolution of hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis via plasmapheresis: A unique case report

“…Another case study reported a similarly rapid reduction in TG levels after plasmapheresis for HTGP; the patient was discharged in a stable condition less than 96 h after initial admission. 11…”

“…Another case study reported a similarly rapid reduction in TG levels after plasmapheresis for HTGP; the patient was discharged in a stable condition less than 96 h after initial admission. 11 Studies on the effects of plasmapheresis in HTGP generally report improvement in symptoms and laboratory tests. Limited data is available regarding its impact on pancreatitis severity, such as organ failure and local complications.…”