Triglycerides, the main form of stored fat in humans, are an important source of energy. Triglycerides exists in the bloodstream and are transported throughout the body by VLDLs and LDLs. Excess plasma triglycerides are stored in the body's adipose tissue .
Measurement of triglyceride levels is part of the lipid profile . The triglyceride test is used to evaluate the individual's risk of coronary and vascular disease, and to identify atherosclerosis. The test can also provide information about the body's ability to metabolize fat.
Measurement of triglyceride levels is part of the lipid profile . The triglyceride test is used to evaluate the individual's risk of coronary and vascular disease, and to identify atherosclerosis. The test can also provide information about the body's ability to metabolize fat.
Normal Range.
Variations in triglyceride ranges are affected by gender,
age, and diet.
Men
40-190 mg/dl
40-190 mg/dl
Women
35-160 mg/dl
Children
30-100 mg/dl
Variations from Normal.
Elevated triglyceride levels increase the individual's risk of atherosclerosis, ASHD, and peripheral vascular disease.
Other clinical conditions associated with increased triglycerides include all types of hyperlipidemia, poorly controlled diabetes, pancreatitis, kidney syndromes, and toxemia. Individuals with a history of myocardial infarction may show increased triglycerides for up to one year postinfarction .
A highcarbohydrate diet may contribute to high triglyceride levels.
Decreased triglyceride values are seldom seen as a clinical problem.
Genetic defects and chronic problems of malnutrition and malabsorption syndrome will exhibit decreased triglyceride levels. Other diseases associated with low triglycerides are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, brain infarction, and hyperthyroidism.
Decreased triglyceride values are seldom seen as a clinical problem.
Genetic defects and chronic problems of malnutrition and malabsorption syndrome will exhibit decreased triglyceride levels. Other diseases associated with low triglycerides are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, brain infarction, and hyperthyroidism.
Interfering Circumstances.
A temporary increase in triglycerides can be triggered by alcohol consumption and a pretest meal high in fats. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and estrogen are also associated with elevated values.
Drugs that may decrease triglyceride levels include ascorbic acid, the antitumor enzyme asparaginase, and lipid-lowering agents such as clofibrate.
Drugs that may decrease triglyceride levels include ascorbic acid, the antitumor enzyme asparaginase, and lipid-lowering agents such as clofibrate.
