Pregnancy-induced severe hypertriglyceridemia effectively treated with therapeutic plasmapheresis

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertriglyceridemia is associated with significant morbidity during pregnancy. Hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis (HTGP) is associated with genetically determined dyslipidemia or a secondary condition such as diabetes, alcohol, pregnancy, or medication use. The lack of data on the safety of drugs to be used to decrease triglyceride levels during pregnancy dictates that other strategies must be chosen.

Patient and methods: We describe a case of a pregnant woman with severe hypertriglyceridemia treated with two different techniques of plasmapheresis (Dual Filtration apheresis and Centrifugal Plasma Separation).

Results: The patient could be treated throughout the pregnancy, with good control of the triglycerides, and a healthy baby was born.

Conclusion: Hypertriglyceridemia is a major issue during pregnancy. The use of plasmapheresis is a safe and efficient tool in that clinical scenario.

Keywords: Apheresis; Hypertriglyceridemia; Pancreatitis; Pregnancy; Transfusion.