TRIGLYCERIDES

Triglycerides are delivered with food or are synthesized endogenously in liver. Triglycerides stored in adipose tissue constitute a reserve of energy. Determinations of triglycerides level in serum and plasma are used to diagnose and monitor clinical conditions associated with hipertriglyceridemia and hipotriglyceridemia. Triglycerides are one of the parameters determined in the lipid profile. This help to assess the state of the body's lipid metabolism. Hypertriglyceridemia is also a helpful marker of the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Increased triglycerides level can be observed in several diseases, such as diabetes mellitus type I and II, metabolic syndrome, pancreatitis, hypothyroidism, renal failure, nephrotic syndrome and because of the drug use (e.g. corticosteroids, estrogens, retinoids, antiretroviral drugs, antipsychotics). The lifestyle can also affect the triglycerides level. Obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity, increased alcohol consumption contribute to an increase in triglycerides level. Decreased values of triglycerides can be observed in hyperthyroidism, malnutrition and wasting.