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An interesting case of hypertriglyceridaemic pancreatitis
Anupama K Pujar1, Anil Kumar V R, Sridhar M
1Assistant Professor, MSRMC .
Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research : JCDR
|August 2, 2013
Summary
Severe hypertriglyceridaemia can cause acute pancreatitis, even in diabetics. This case highlights prompt management with lipid-lowering agents and insulin for successful recovery.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Hypertriglyceridaemia is an uncommon cause of acute pancreatitis.
- A serum triglyceride level exceeding 1000 mg/dL is typically required to precipitate pancreatitis.
- Diabetic patients on oral hypoglycaemic agents are at risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of acute pancreatitis secondary to severe hypertriglyceridaemia in a diabetic patient.
- To discuss the diagnostic and management strategies for this condition.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 35-year-old male with abdominal pain and vomiting.
- Laboratory investigations including serum amylase and triglyceride levels.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen.
- Management with fibrates, atorvastatin, antioxidants, and insulin therapy.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of acute pancreatitis.
- Serum triglyceride level was markedly elevated at 1901 mg/dL.
- Abdominal CECT confirmed features suggestive of pancreatitis.
- The patient recovered well with appropriate medical management.
Conclusions:
- Severe hypertriglyceridaemia is a critical, though uncommon, cause of acute pancreatitis.
- Prompt diagnosis and management, including lipid-lowering therapies and glycemic control, are essential for patient recovery.
- This case underscores the importance of considering hypertriglyceridaemia in the differential diagnosis of acute pancreatitis, particularly in diabetic individuals.
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