Disorders of lipid metabolism are classified into primary and secondary types.
Secondary lipid metabolism disorders are the most common.
The causes of secondary lipid metabolism disorders include:
obesity, diabetes mellitus, alcohol consumption, nephrotic syndrome, chronic kidney failure, hypothyroidism, and malnutrition.
In addition, a wide range of medications can affect lipid profiles.
The lipid metabolism disorder associated with metabolic syndrome is the most common secondary lipid metabolism disorder.
In this condition, LDL cholesterol is normal, triglycerides are elevated, and HDL cholesterol is decreased.
Despite treatment of the underlying disease, in the majority of cases, cardiovascular risk remains elevated and lipid levels are not within the target range.
With few exceptions, treatment of the lipid metabolism disorder is therefore necessary in addition to treatment of the underlying condition.