Severe Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Pancreatitis Presenting as Diabetic Ketoacidosis in a Young Adult With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis (HTGP) is an uncommon but serious condition typically associated with markedly elevated triglyceride levels, often exceeding 1,000 mg/dL and more frequently seen above 2,000-3,000 mg/dL. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a common complication in patients with poorly controlled diabetes, may contribute to or be worsened by hypertriglyceridemia due to insulin deficiency and increased lipolysis. We report the case of a 20-year-old male with type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented with DKA and was subsequently diagnosed with HTGP. The patient experienced significant clinical improvement following urgent plasmapheresis, which resulted in a rapid decline in triglyceride levels. This case underscores the importance of considering hypertriglyceridemia as a potential underlying cause in patients with DKA and abdominal pain and highlights the therapeutic role of plasmapheresis in achieving metabolic stabilization.