From the Guidelines
Elevated triglycerides do not directly cause elevated platelets, and these conditions should be evaluated and treated separately based on their specific causes. The relationship between triglycerides and platelets is complex, and while both can be risk factors for cardiovascular disease, they are distinct clinical parameters with different underlying causes. Elevated triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia) are typically associated with metabolic disorders, poor diet, obesity, diabetes, alcohol consumption, or certain medications 1. On the other hand, elevated platelet counts (thrombocytosis) are usually caused by inflammatory conditions, infections, iron deficiency, certain cancers, or can be a primary blood disorder.
Some key points to consider in managing elevated triglycerides include:
- Evaluating for secondary causes of hypertriglyceridemia and considering medical therapy to reduce the risk of pancreatitis in patients with fasting triglyceride levels ≥500 mg/dL 1
- Addressing and treating lifestyle factors, secondary factors, and medications that raise triglycerides in adults with moderate hypertriglyceridemia (fasting or non–fasting triglycerides 175–499 mg/dL) 1
- Considering the addition of icosapent ethyl to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or other cardiovascular risk factors on a statin with controlled LDL cholesterol but elevated triglycerides (135–499 mg/dL) 1
In contrast, treatment for elevated platelets depends on identifying and addressing the underlying cause. It is essential to note that the management of these conditions should prioritize reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and improving overall health outcomes, rather than focusing solely on the relationship between triglycerides and platelets. According to the most recent guidelines, hypertriglyceridemia should be addressed with dietary and lifestyle changes, including weight loss and abstinence from alcohol 1.
From the Research
Elected Triglycerides and Elevated Platelets
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that elected triglycerides cause elevated platelets 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies focus on the relationship between triglycerides and cardiovascular disease risk, as well as the management and treatment of hypertriglyceridemia 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Hypertriglyceridemia is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, acute pancreatitis, and other conditions, but the link to elevated platelets is not explicitly mentioned in the provided evidence 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Triglycerides and Cardiovascular Disease
- Elevated triglyceride levels are independently associated with cardiovascular disease risk 4, 5, 6.
- Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and their remnants contribute to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) 6.
- Reducing severely elevated triglycerides is important to avert or reduce the risk of pancreatitis and ASCVD 3, 6.
Management and Treatment of Hypertriglyceridemia
- Management of raised triglycerides includes optimizing diet, reducing exacerbating factors, and lipid-lowering medications such as statins, fibrates, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids 3, 4, 6.
- Novel medications for orphan disease indications, such as familial chylomicronaemia syndrome, include volanesorsen, evinacumab, and other antisense therapeutics 3.