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What is Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome (FCS)?

FCS is a rare genetic disorder characterized by Lipoprotein Lipase Deficiency (LPLD), which prevents the body from breaking down fats, such as triglycerides (TGs), causing a build-up of TGs and dietary fats in the body. Eating even a little fat can cause a person with FCS to become ill. When the body has sustained high TG levels and is unable to digest fats, FCS patients are at risk for pancreatitis. Chronic symptoms include back pain and abdominal pain. Other symptoms include neurological problems and blood that appears fatty or “milky” when drawn. Left undiagnosed, FCS can have serious, life-threatening complications.