Hypertriglyceridemia
What Is It?
Elevated blood triglycerides (>150 mg/dL = borderline; >500 mg/dL = severe). Severe hypertriglyceridemia risks pancreatitis. All levels associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Fasting lipid panel. Rule out secondary causes: diabetes, hypothyroidism, alcohol, nephrotic syndrome, medications (corticosteroids, beta-blockers, estrogens). Genetic testing for familial forms if very high.
How Is It Treated?
Mild-moderate: lifestyle (low-carb diet, reduce alcohol, exercise, weight loss, treat underlying causes). Fibrates (fenofibrate, gemfibrozil) most effective. Omega-3 fatty acids (icosapent ethyl/Vascepa for high CV risk). Statins for mixed dyslipidemia.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
Fasting lipid panel, fasting glucose, HbA1c, TSH, BMP, LFTs, CBC, urine protein.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. Fasting lipid panel: $25-$40. Fenofibrate: $15-$30/month. Vascepa: $300+/month (GoodRx coupons available).