Red Blood Cells

How are pancreatitis and familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) related?

Having FCS increases a person’s risk of acute pancreatitis.³⁸

Having FCS increases a person’s risk of dangerous health problems. Since FCS impairs the removal of triglyceride-carrying chylomicrons from the blood stream, triglycerides (TGs) can build up in the pancreas. This buildup can trigger inflammation and damage, a condition called acute pancreatitis.

This serious, painful condition often requires a hospital stay and can be life threatening. Pancreatitis can also cause persistent damage to the pancreas and other organs, as well as cause or worsen diabetes.

Reducing the risk of pancreatitis is one of the most important reasons for people with FCS to strictly manage their triglyceride levels. FCS also has other health effects.

Eli, Living with FCS Patient Story (with his parents)

Eli was a freshman in college when he experienced his first acute pancreatitis episode and spend 21 days in the hospital. In this video Eli and his parents describe their terrifying ordeal.

Learn about the signs and symptoms of FCS >

Show References

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