When triglycerides
climb too high.
Severe Hypertriglyceridemia (sHTG) is a condition in which triglyceride levels reach 500 mg/dL or higher. Understanding your numbers is the first step toward lower risk and better health.
what you’ll find on this page
Defining sHTG
Fasting triglycerides at or above 500 mg/dL are considered severe. Levels at or above 1,000 mg/dL are very severe and sharply raise the risk of pancreatitis.
Why it happens
sHTG is usually driven by a mix of genetic, medical, and lifestyle factors, including diabetes, kidney disease, certain medications, alcohol, and diet.
Why it matters
Very high triglycerides can lead to acute pancreatitis, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, and worsening metabolic health.
What is sHTG?
Severe Hypertriglyceridemia (sHTG) is a condition in which triglyceride levels in the blood are extremely elevated, typically ≥500 mg/dL, and often exceed 1,000 mg/dL. While triglycerides are an important source of energy, very high levels can increase the risk of serious health complications, including acute pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.
sHTG may result from a combination of genetic factors, medical conditions (such as diabetes), medications, and lifestyle factors. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to reduce complications and improve long-term health outcomes.
Key Facts
- Normal triglycerides: <150 mg/dL
- Elevated risk begins at ≥500 mg/dL
- Pancreatitis risk increases substantially at ≥1,000 mg/dL
- Many patients have an underlying genetic predisposition