Acute pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia: clinical case

Abstract

Introduction. Acute pancreatitis is a common pathology of the gastrointestinal tract and it can lead to high morbidity and mortality according to its evolution. Its worldwide incidence of 4.9 to 73.4 cases per 100,000 habitants. Hypertriglyceridaemia is the third leading cause of acute pancreatitis, it occurs when triglyceride levels reach values greater than 1,000 mg / dl.

Objective. To describe a clinical case focused on acute pancreatitis secondary to severe hypertriglyceridemia, by reviewing a medical history to analyze its diagnosis and treatment.

Materials and methods. Retrospective descriptive study, clinical case presentation. Data were obtained from the patient through the clinical history at admission and during her hospital stay. Knowledge about this pathology was updated with articles from the MEDSCAPE, Elsevier and PUBMED databases.

Results. After evaluation of the patient, and with the help of complementary tests, a definitive diagnosis was established, severe acute pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia, management in intensive care and surgical treatment due to necrotic evolution.

Discussion. The definitive diagnosis was acute pancreatitis due to hypertriglyceridemia, the context of a young patient with typical symptoms was considered. The delay in the result of complementary examinations did not allow an early etiological diagnosis.

Conclusion. Hypertriglyceridemia is an unusual cause of acute pancreatitis, with a poor prognosis. Initially, the diagnosis is clinical, laboratory parameters must be obtained early to determine its etiology and carry out an adequate therapeutic approach