Primary hypertriglyceridemia may present with various clinical features, depending on the severity of the condition.
Step 1: Mild to Moderate Hypertriglyceridemia:
- Often asymptomatic and may be detected incidentally during routine blood tests.
- Patients may experience mild fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or recurrent mild pancreatitis.
Step 2: Severe Hypertriglyceridemia:
- Can lead to acute pancreatitis, a serious and painful condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- May also present with eruptive xanthomas (yellowish deposits of fat under the skin), particularly on the arms, legs, and buttocks.
Step 3: Long-Term Complications:
- Chronic hypertriglyceridemia is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease due to the associated dyslipidemia.