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.