Hypertriglyceridemia-related pancreatitis in patients with type 2 diabetes: Links and risks

Abstract

Disturbances in glucose and lipid homeostasis are cardinal features of the metabolic syndrome that affect millions of people worldwide. These conditions have multi-organ impact, and while cardiovascular effects are usually the core for studies and preventive measures, other systems may also be affected, including the pancreas. Acute pancreatitis related to severe hypertriglyceridemia is an under-recognized condition that could lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Therefore, when suspected, prompt diagnosis and treatment should be initiated to cover the various aspects of this disorder. Though commonly known to be associated with excess of alcohol use, hypertriglyceridemia-related pancreatitis is particularly observed in diabetics, especially when uncontrolled. Here, we portray the possible mechanisms and clinical features that link type 2 diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia and pancreatitis, and discuss their health-related outcomes and the current and novel treatment options for this unique disease.