Hiperlipidemi

Hiperlipidemia, or hyperlipidemia in medical terminology, is a condition characterized by elevated levels of lipids in the blood, including cholesterol fractions and triglycerides. It is a major modifiable risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which can lead to coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.

The condition is commonly categorized by the type of lipid abnormality: hypercholesterolemia (high LDL cholesterol or total cholesterol), hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides), and mixed dyslipidemia (combined abnormalities, often with low HDL cholesterol). Hyperlipidemia can be primary, due to genetic factors such as familial hypercholesterolemia or familial combined hyperlipidemia, or secondary, arising from other conditions or exposures.

Causes and risk factors include genetic predisposition, obesity, insulin resistance or diabetes, hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, chronic kidney or liver disease, and certain medications (for example corticosteroids or some antiretrovirals). Lifestyle factors such as an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake also contribute.

Diagnosis is based on a fasting lipid panel that measures total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglycerides. Target levels depend on overall cardiovascular risk, with LDL-C often used as the primary treatment target.

Management focuses on lifestyle modification and, when indicated, pharmacotherapy. Lifestyle measures include weight loss, regular physical activity, a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates, and smoking cessation. Pharmacologic options include statins as first-line therapy, with ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, bile acid sequestrants, fibrates, or omega-3 fatty acids as alternatives or add-ons depending on the lipid pattern and risk profile. Early detection and treatment improve long-term outcomes.