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Severe Hypertriglyceridemia

Triglyceride elevation above 500 mg/dL with risk of pancreatitis.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Severe Hypertriglyceridemia?

Severe hypertriglyceridemia is defined as a fasting triglyceride level >500 mg/dL; very severe (>1000 mg/dL) increases the risk of acute pancreatitis to 5-20% and skin xanthoma, hepatosplenomegaly, and lipemia retinalis are seen.

Underlying causes include genetic disorders (familial hyperchylomicronemia, type 5 dyslipidemia), uncontrolled diabetes, alcohol abuse, hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, drugs (estrogen, steroids, retinoids, antipsychotics), and obesity.

Treatment is fibrate (gemfibrozil, fenofibrate), high-dose omega-3 (4 g/day), strict dietary restriction (low fat, alcohol cessation), control of underlying disease, and plasmapheresis or insulin infusion in pancreatitis.

Symptoms

Eruptive xanthomas (skin nodules)
Lipemia retinalis (whitish retinal vessels)
Hepatosplenomegaly
Recurrent abdominal pain
Acute pancreatitis attacks
Fatigue
Cognitive disturbance

Risk Factors

Genetic disorders (familial chylomicronemia)
Uncontrolled diabetes
Alcohol abuse
Obesity
Hypothyroidism
Pregnancy (third trimester)
Estrogen/oral contraceptives, steroids, retinoids

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Triglycerides >500 mg/dL on routine test
  • Sudden severe abdominal pain
  • Skin xanthomas
  • Family history of pancreatitis
  • Persistent dyslipidemia despite diet

Treatment Methods

01
Strict diet (fat <10-15%) and alcohol cessation
02
Fibrate (gemfibrozil 600 mg or fenofibrate 145 mg)
03
High-dose omega-3 (EPA+DHA 4 g/day)
04
Tight glycemic control
05
Insulin infusion in pancreatitis
06
Plasmapheresis (very high values)
07
Long-term lipid follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.