Lipemia retinalis: a combination of genetics and the American diet and lifestyle

Abstract

Background: Lipemia retinalis is a well-documented but rate ocular finding directly associated with serum triglyceride levels. The clinical presentation varies with the amount of triglycerides in the blood and completely resolves with lowering triglyceride levels, making this condition transient with no visual symptoms;

Case report: A 46-year old white man presented with lipemia retinalis and, hours later, to the Emergency department with acute pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia;

Conclusion: Lipemia retinalis warrants an immediate complete blood count and lipid panel to Determine triglyceride levels with referral to a primary care provider.