What characterizes severe hypertriglyceridemia?

Severe hypertriglyceridemia is characterized by significantly elevated levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream, often associated with various health complications. One of the prominent issues that arise from these heightened triglyceride levels is the development of fatty deposits in the skin, known as xanthomas. These deposits can appear as yellowish bumps or patches on various parts of the body, signaling fat accumulation beneath the skin.

Additionally, severe hypertriglyceridemia can lead to acute pancreatitis, an extremely serious condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed. This occurs because high levels of triglycerides can disrupt normal physiological processes, leading to the activation of digestive enzymes within the pancreas that can cause inflammation and damage.

In summary, the presence of fatty deposits in the skin and the risk of acute pancreatitis are key indicators of severe hypertriglyceridemia, making this characteristic critically important for both diagnosis and management of patients with this condition.