Differential Diagnosis for Elevated Triglyceride (170) in a 10-year-old Male
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Familial Hypertriglyceridemia: This condition is characterized by elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood and can be inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. It's a common cause of isolated hypertriglyceridemia and can present at any age, including childhood.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Obesity or Overweight: Being overweight or obese is a common cause of elevated triglycerides in children, due to increased fat mass and associated insulin resistance.
- Dietary Factors: Consuming a diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can contribute to elevated triglyceride levels.
- Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity can contribute to the development of insulin resistance and elevated triglycerides.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Diabetes Mellitus: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to very high levels of triglycerides due to insulin resistance and increased hepatic production of VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein).
- Hypothyroidism: Untreated hypothyroidism can cause elevation in triglycerides due to decreased metabolism and increased production of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: This condition, characterized by significant proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema, can lead to elevated triglycerides due to increased hepatic production of lipoproteins.
Rare Diagnoses
- Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia: A genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of lipids, leading to elevated levels of both cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Lipoprotein Lipase Deficiency: A rare genetic disorder that impairs the breakdown of triglycerides, leading to severely elevated levels.
- Apolipoprotein C-II Deficiency: A rare condition that affects the activation of lipoprotein lipase, leading to elevated triglyceride levels.