Bridging the gap in treatment options for patients with hypertriglyceridemia

Hypertriglyceridemia is a commonly encountered problem in primary care practice. In 2002, the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reported that among adults 20 years of age and older, 30% had a triglyceride (TG) level greater than 150 mg/dL, and among people 50 years of age and older, the prevalence was 42.8%. Recent data suggest that elevated TG levels are an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is important, therefore, that clinicians identify patients with hypertriglyceridemia and initiate treatment as appropriate. In this article, we use a case study to illustrate the appropriate identification and treatment of a patient at risk. We also review the etiology of hypertriglyceridemia, its association with CVD, the recommended approach to treatment, and the efficacy and tolerability of therapeutic options.