Clinical significance of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins in metabolic syndrome

Increase in triglyceride (TG) -rich lipoproteins is one of the symptoms clustered in metabolic syndrome and is associated with increased plasma free fatty acid level derived from central obesity and insulin resistance. Increase in triglyceride (TG) -rich lipoproteins is also related to several coronary risk factors such as remnant hyperlipidemia, decreased HDL-cholesterol, elevated small dense LDL, postprandial hyperlipidemia, and hypercoagulability. The first line of treatment for hypertriglyceridemia is the modification of individual life-style, among which, restriction of over-eating and practice of regular exercise are both essential. The consideration of dietary composition, not only the quantity but also the quality of nutrients, such as fat and carbohydrate, and behavior toward diet are also important to manage abnormal lipid profile. Statins, fibrates, nicotinic acid derivatives, and EPA are the drugs recommended for the treatment of dyslipidemias in metabolic syndrome.