Chylomicronemia and the chylomicronemia syndrome: a practical approach to management

Am J Med. 2008 Jan;121(1):10-2. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2007.10.004.

Abstract

Chylomicronemia is present when triglyceride levels exceed 1000 mg/dL. Chylomicronemia, when accompanied by eruptive xanthoma, lipemia retinalis, or abdominal symptoms, is referred to as the "chylomicronemia syndrome" and can cause acute pancreatitis. Treatment aimed at reducing triglyceride levels includes lifestyle modifications to promote weight loss with diet and physical activity coupled with medications, including fibrates, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and nicotinic acid. Chylomicronemic patients with acute pancreatitis require insulinization in an inpatient setting to abolish chylomicronemia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chylomicrons / blood*
  • Clofibric Acid / therapeutic use
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Hypertriglyceridemia* / diagnosis
  • Hypertriglyceridemia* / etiology
  • Hypertriglyceridemia* / therapy
  • Hypolipidemic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Life Style
  • Syndrome
  • Triglycerides / blood

Substances

  • Chylomicrons
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Hypolipidemic Agents
  • Triglycerides
  • Clofibric Acid