Plasma exchange in severe hypertriglyceridemia a clinical study.

BACKGROUND

Hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia are independent risk factors for atherosclerotic heart diseases. Moreover acute pancreatitis may occur in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the effectiveness of plasma exchange (PE) in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia.

METHODS

Seven patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia (a triglyceride level of more than 1000mg/dl) were treated with PE. After PE, lipid and hematological parameters and side effects were evaluated.

RESULTS

Triglyceride levels decreased below 1000mg/dl in all patients. The levels of triglyceride and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p<0.05 for both), and total cholesterol (p<0.005) decreased significantly. PE was well-tolerated. Liver and renal functions, hematological parameters, except for an increase in white blood cell counts, did not change significantly.

CONCLUSION

PE may be used safely and effectively in severe hyperlipidemic patients at risk of acute coronary events and acute pancreatitis. Further extended studies may provide more detailed information.