Highlights & Basics
- Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) can be classified either according to the severity of triglyceride (TG) elevation or whether it is primary or secondary.
- Primary HTG is rarely monogenic and typically polygenic in nature; secondary causes of HTG include lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and medications.
- Mild-to-moderate HTG is associated with increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease while severe HTG may cause acute pancreatitis.
- Treatment begins with lifestyle modification and control of secondary factors.
- Additional therapies include statins, fibrates, and prescription omega-3 acids.
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