Serum triglycerides are used to assess cardiovascular risk in patients with elevated cholesterol.
More information
Triglycerides are esters of glycerol with three long-chain fatty acids. They are synthesized partly in the liver and partly from the diet.
Triglycerides constitute a significant portion (up to 70%) of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and a small portion (<10%) of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in fasting serum samples. Dietary triglycerides are transported as components of chylomicrons through the lymphatic system and bloodstream to adipose tissue, where they are released for storage. Triglycerides are also synthesized in the liver from fatty acids, proteins, and glucose, which are not used for the body's immediate needs and are stored in adipose tissue. These energy sources can be recovered later and converted to glucose through gluconeogenesis.
Elevated plasma triglyceride levels indicate a metabolic abnormality and, together with elevated cholesterol, are considered a risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis. Hypertriglyceridemia may be hereditary or associated with biliary obstruction, diabetes mellitus, nephrotic syndrome, renal failure, or metabolic disorders associated with endocrine diseases. Drugs (e.g., prednisone) may also cause elevated triglycerides.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Alcoholism, aortic aneurysm, aortitis, arteriosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, diet (recent high-carbohydrate, prolonged high-fat), familial hypertriglyceridemia, glycogen storage diseases, gout, hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipoproteinemia, hypothyroidism, metabolic syndrome, myocardial infarction, myxedema, nephrotic syndrome, obesity, pancreatitis, pregnancy, renal failure (chronic), fasting (at the onset), stress, Tangier disease, von Gierke disease, smoking. Medications: Cholestyramine, corticosteroids, estrogens, ethyl alcohol (ethanol), miconazole (intravenously), oral contraceptives, spironolactone
- Decrease: Abetalipoproteinemia, acanthocytosis, cirrhosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hyperactive bowel, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, malnutrition. Medications: Ascorbic acid, asparaginase, clofibrate, dextrothyroxine, gemfibrozil, heparin, lovastatin, metformin, niacin, phenformin, pravastatin, sulfonylureas. Natural or herbal remedies, including Cordyceps sinensis, garlic, and soy
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
