Ocular signs and symptoms of altered blood lipids

Several eye signs may present secondary to altered blood lipid levels. It is important to recognize these signs and their implications relative to both primary and secondary hyperlipoproteinemias. The significance of corneal arcus is age related, while isolated xanthelasma implies altered blood lipid levels in 30-50% of the cases. Eruptive xanthomas imply triglyceride levels in excess of 1500 mg% while lipemia retinalis presents when triglyceride levels exceed 2500 mg%. Retinal emboli present as a sign of an eroding atheroma and as such an indicator of the possibility of an impending stroke. Altered blood lipid levels represent a threat to life and must be recognized as early as possible to institute therapy. Therapy may be directed to either the primary or secondary causes of hyperlipoproteinemias.