Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia
Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia
Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia is a rare form of elevated blood triglyceride levels. Hypertriglyceridemia means having abnormally high levels of triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in blood, and are made from leftover calories that are not used up by the body. People with high triglyceride levels are at increased risk for developing heart disease and stroke.
Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia is part of a group of conditions called Fredrickson Type IV hyperlipidemias – conditions that are characterized by very high levels of triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). According to the National Institutes of Health, Type IV hyperlipidemias are considered to be one of the most severe forms of dyslipidemia. Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia can be further divided into two subtypes – type IV A and type IV B – which differ based on the levels of LDL-C and HDL-C.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia is unknown, although it is known to have a strong genetic component. People who have close relatives with the condition are more likely to inherit it. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and hypothyroidism, and certain medications such as thiazide diuretics and tamoxifen, can increase the risk of developing the condition. People who have an increased risk of developing severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia include those who are obese or who lead a sedentary lifestyle.
Symptoms of Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia
Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia usually has no associated symptoms. Some people may have abdominal pain and may develop an enlarged liver.
Diagnosis of Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia
Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia is usually diagnosed by measuring levels of triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol in a blood test. The test may also include other tests such as a lipoprotein electrophoresis to determine the specific type of Fredrickson hyperlipidemia.
Treatment and Management
Severe Fredrickson Type IV Hypertriglyceridemia can be treated and managed with lifestyle modifications and medications, depending on the severity of the condition. Lifestyle modifications may include exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet. If lifestyle modifications are not enough to reduce triglyceride levels, medications such as fibrates, statins, and niacin may be prescribed.