Triglyceride

Background

The triglyceride molecule contains three fatty acid residues bound to a single molecule of glycerol and is the form in which fat is stored in the adipose tissue. Abnormalities in the uilisation and storage of fat are reflected in abnormal serum triglyceride levels. There is some disagreement as to whether elevated levels constitute a risk factor in the formation of atherosclerosis. Raised triglyceride levels may be encountered in a series of inherited hyperlipidaemia traits or be secondary to a variety of disorders including diabetes, nephrosis, biliary obstruction and metabolic disorders associated with endocrine disturbances.

Reference ranges

< 40 yrs: 0.3 – 1.80 mmol/L
40 yrs: 0.3 – 2.1 mmol/L

Specimen requirements

Sample type:

• Serum

or

• Lithium Heparin Plasma

Sample Identification:

• Three patient identifiers from
  • Name
  • DOB
  • Address
  • NHS number
  • Unit number
  should match on the specimen and request form. This check may be performed prior to centrifugation by the Central Sort department.

Turnaround time

2 hours