Work

Severe Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Pancreatitis Presenting as Diabetic Ketoacidosis in a Young Adult With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis (HTGP) is an uncommon but serious condition typically associated with markedly elevated triglyceride levels, often exceeding 1,000 mg/dL and more frequently seen above 2,000-3,000 mg/dL. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a common complication in patients with poorly controlled diabetes, may contribute to or be worsened by hypertriglyceridemia due to insulin deficiency and increased lipolysis. We report the case of a 20-year-old male with type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented with DKA and was subsequently diagnosed with HTGP. The patient experienced significant clinical improvement following urgent plasmapheresis, which resulted in a rapid decline in triglyceride levels. This case underscores the importance of considering hypertriglyceridemia as a potential underlying cause in patients with DKA and abdominal pain and highlights the therapeutic role of plasmapheresis in achieving metabolic stabilization.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.84322

Authors: Dhayananth Rattaipalivalasu Saravanan, Salil Avasthi, Chintan Desai, Maryam Saghir, Arzoo Khadka

Institutions: Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center, Mercy Health, Bon Secours Mercy Health

Language: English

Topic: Pancreatitis Pathology and Treatment

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4410468985