A constellation of signs and symptoms, the chylomicronaemia syndrome, occurs in association with long-standing chylomicronaemia (Fig. 6.25). The most important consequence is acute pancreatitis, which is often recurrent.
Eruptive xanthomata are frequently present, and the retinal vessels occasionally demonstrate lipaemia retinalis. A reversible loss of memory, particularly for recent events, and peripheral neuropathy, which sometimes mimics the carpal tunnel syndrome, also occur. These clinical manifestations can be prevented or reversed by keeping the triglyceride level below approximately 10mmol/l. Eruptive xanthomata resolve in six to twelve weeks.
