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Hypertriglyceridaemic pancreatitis — SCE Endocrinology MCQ

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ModerateDiabetesHypertriglyceridaemic pancreatitisSCE Endocrinology

A 45-year-old man with type 2 diabetes has triglycerides 12 mmol/L, HbA1c 89 mmol/mol and abdominal pain. Amylase is raised and CT confirms pancreatitis. Alcohol intake is minimal. What is the most appropriate acute metabolic focus?

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Correct answer: B — Rapid triglyceride reduction with specialist diabetes and lipid management

Severe hypertriglyceridaemia can precipitate pancreatitis and requires urgent specialist management, often including insulin-based strategies if hyperglycaemic. Statins help long-term cardiovascular risk but are not sufficient as acute treatment at this level. Poor glycaemic control can substantially aggravate triglyceridaemia.

Reference: BNF; Endocrine Society Lipid Guideline