Clinical and Interpretive

Measurement of triglycerides is useful in the evaluation of risk factors in individuals with elevated cholesterol values. Since cholesterol and triglycerides can vary independently, measurement of both is more meaningful than the measurement of cholesterol or triglycerides only. For a complete lipid profile, please order test code LIPID.

Triglycerides are esters of the trihydric alcohol glycerol with 3 long-chain fatty acids. They are partly synthesized in the liver and partly derived from the diet. Increased plasma triglyceride levels are indicative of a metabolic abnormality and, along with elevated cholesterol, are considered a risk factor for atherosclerotic disease. Hyperlipidemia may be inherited or be associated with biliary obstruction, diabetes mellitus, nephrotic syndrome, renal failure, or metabolic disorders related to endocrinopathies. Increased triglycerides may also be medication-induced (eg, prednisone).