Treatment:

A completely fat-free diet is required.

Expectations (prognosis):

Symptoms tend to be dramatically reduced when patients adhere to a fat-free diet.

Complications:

When untreated, the excess chylomicrons may lead to bouts of pancreatitis, which can be extremely painful and even life threatening. There seems to be no increased risk for atherosclerotic heart disease.

Calling your health care provider:

Seek immediate medical care if you have abdominal pain or other warning signs of pancreatitis.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have a personal or family history of high triglyceride levels.