In medicine, hypertriglyceridemia (or "Hypertriglyceridaemia") denotes high (hyper-) blood levels (-emia) of triglycerides, the most abundant fatty molecule in most organisms. It has been associated with atherosclerosis, even in the absence of hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels). It can also lead to pancreatitis in excessive concentrations. Very high triglyceride levels may also interfere with blood tests; hyponatremia may be reported spuriously (pseudohyponatremia).

A related term is "Hyperglyceridemia" or "Hyperglyceridaemia", which refers to a high level of all glycerides, including monoglycerides, diglycerides and triglycerides.

Causes include

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• idiopathic (constitutional)
• obesity
• high fat diet
• Diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) and insulin resistance
• excess alcohol intake

Treatment

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Treatment of hypertriglyceridemia is by fat restriction in the diet, as well as with niacin, fibrates and statins (three classes of drugs). Increased fish oil intake may substantially lower an individual's triglycerides.^*** Reducing dietary carbohydrates may help as well.

Cardiology | Lipid disorders | Medical conditions related to obesity