Pancreatitis Induced by Hypertriglyceridemia

The detailed pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the progression of hypertriglyceridemia to pancreatitis are little known. Using an animal model we have found that the earliest detectable changes caused by hypertriglyceridemia consist of a selective degeneration of the mitochondria in the exocrine pancreas cells. This supports the view that an excess of free fatty acids deranges the mitochondrial function leading to an increased production of free radicals and thus oxidative stress. To prevent or treat hypertriglyceridemia is the primary goal in patients suffering from this type of pancreatitis. Our findings agree with the view that also antioxidants may have a role in the prevention of recurrent hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis. Clinical trials with and without high doses of antioxidants should be carried out in patients suffering from recurrent hypertriglyceridemic pancreatitis.