Why conduct a lipidogram, how much does the analysis cost and what does it show. What is a lipidogram and lipid spectrum of blood - decoding of the analysis Lipid blood formula decoding

Cholesterol is a lipoprotein, and in the human body is present in the blood and in cell membranes. Blood cholesterol is represented by cholesterol esters, and in membranes - free cholesterol. Cholesterol is a vital substance, as it is involved in the formation of bile, sex hormones, and gives firmness to the cell membrane. The notion that cholesterol = harm is wrong. More dangerous for the body is the lack of cholesterol than its excess. However, an excess amount of cholesterol in the blood is a prerequisite for the development of such a disease as atherosclerosis. Therefore, the determination of cholesterol is a marker for the development of atherosclerosis.

How to take a blood test for cholesterol?

To determine the lipid profile, blood from a vein taken in the morning on an empty stomach is used. Preparation for the test is usual - refraining from food for 6-8 hours, avoiding physical exertion and rich fatty foods. The determination of total cholesterol is carried out by the unified international method of Abel or Ilk. The determination of fractions is carried out by precipitation and photometry methods, which are rather laborious, but accurate, specific and quite sensitive.

The author warns that the norm indicators are averaged, and may differ in each laboratory. The material of the article should be used as a reference and no attempt should be made to make a diagnosis and start treatment on your own.

Lipidogram - what is it?
Today, the concentration of the following blood lipoproteins is determined:

1. total cholesterol
2. High density lipoproteins (HDL or α-cholesterol),
3. Low density lipoproteins (LDL beta cholesterol).
4. Triglycerides (TG)

The combination of these indicators (cholesterol, LDL, HDL, TG) is called lipidogram. A more important diagnostic criterion for the risk of developing atherosclerosis is an increase in the LDL fraction, which is called atherogenic, that is, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis.

HDL, on the contrary, are antiatherogenic fraction, as they reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.

Triglycerides are a transport form of fats, so their high content in the blood also leads to the risk of atherosclerosis. All these indicators together or separately are used to diagnose atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, as well as to determine the risk group for the development of these diseases. Also used as a treatment control.

Read more about coronary heart disease in the article: angina pectoris

"Bad" and "good" cholesterol - what is it?

Let us examine in more detail the mechanism of action of cholesterol fractions. LDL is called "bad" cholesterol, since it is he who leads to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques on the walls of blood vessels, which interfere with blood flow. As a result, due to these plaques, vessel deformation occurs, its lumen narrows, and blood cannot pass freely to all organs, as a result, cardiovascular insufficiency develops.

HDL, on the contrary, is “good” cholesterol, which removes atherosclerotic plaques from the walls of blood vessels. Therefore, it is more informative and correct to determine cholesterol fractions, and not just total cholesterol. After all, total cholesterol is made up of all fractions. For example, the concentration of cholesterol in two people is 6 mmol / l, but one of them has 4 mmol / l for HDL, while the other has the same 4 mmol / l for LDL. Of course, a person who has a higher HDL concentration can be calm, and a person who has a higher LDL should take care of his health. Here is such a possible difference, with seemingly the same level of total cholesterol.

Lipidogram norms - cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, atherogenic coefficient

Consider lipid profile indicators - total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, TG.
An increase in blood cholesterol levels is called hypercholesterolemia.

Hypercholesterolemia occurs as a result of an unbalanced diet in healthy people (excessive consumption of fatty foods - fatty meat, coconut, palm oil) or as a hereditary pathology.

The norm of blood lipids

The atherogenic coefficient (KA) is also calculated, which is normally less than 3.

Atherogenic coefficient (KA)

KA shows the ratio of atherogenic and anti-atherogenic fractions in the blood.

How to calculate KA?

This is easy to do just by having lipid profile results. It is necessary to divide the difference between total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol by the HDL value.

Deciphering the values ​​​​of the coefficient of atherogenicity

• If KA of atherosclerosis is minimal.
• If KA is 3-4, then the content of atherogenic fractions is higher, then there is a high degree of probability of developing atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease (CHD),
• If KA> 5 - indicates that a person has a high probability of atherosclerosis, which significantly increases the likelihood of vascular diseases of the heart, brain, limbs, kidneys

Read more about atherosclerosis in the article: Atherosclerosis

In order to normalize fat metabolism, it is necessary to strive for the following blood indicators:

What do lipid profile abnormalities indicate?

Triglycerides

TG is also referred to as risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (ischemic heart disease). When the concentration of TG in the blood is more than 2.29 mmol / l, we are talking about the fact that the person is already sick with atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease. With a blood TG concentration in the range of 1.9-2.2 mmol / l (border values), it is said that atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease are developing, but these diseases themselves have not yet fully developed. An increase in the concentration of TG is also observed in diabetes mellitus.

LDL

An LDL concentration above 4.9 mmol / l indicates that a person is sick with atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. If the concentration of LDL lies in the range of borderline values ​​of 4.0-4.9 mmol / l, then atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease are developing.

HDL

HDL in men is less than 1.16 mmol / l, and in women less than 0.9 mmol / l is a sign of the presence of atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease. With a decrease in HDL to the area of ​​\u200b\u200bboundary values ​​(in women 0.9-1.40 mmol / l, in men 1.16-1.68 mmol / l), we can talk about the development of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. An increase in HDL suggests that the risk of developing coronary artery disease is minimal.

Read about the complication of atherosclerosis - stroke in the article:

To make a diagnosis of diseases from the category of cardiovascular diseases, the main part of the study is necessary - a lipidogram (other names: blood for lipids, blood lipidogram, blood for a lipidogram, lipid profile), which, using a laboratory technique, reveals detailed violations of fat metabolism and the degree of risk of developing the disease in patient.

Lipidogram is a table with the values ​​of the spectral analysis of lipids in the blood. It is analyzed separately for men and women in comparison with standard indicators:

General lipid profile norms

Knowing the level of triglycerides, you can easily calculate the atherogenic plasma index (AIP):

AIP =TG/HDL.

In the treatment of diseases of the heart and blood vessels, metabolism, lipidogram control is prescribed, which shows a change in indicators in the blood.

In order for the result to be accurate, you need to follow some rules for preparing for donating blood for a lipid profile:

• do not radically change your diet;
• in case of poor health, the analysis should be postponed until better times;
• it is not allowed to do a test after an x-ray examination and physiotherapy;
• in the treatment of atherosclerosis, you need to continue taking medications;
• training should be postponed for a day, even better - for several days;
• do not drink alcohol for a day or two;
• do not smoke immediately one hour before the test;
• set yourself up for peace;
• the last meal - 8-10 hours before the procedure;
• if there is thirst on the eve of the lipid profile, you can drink only clean water in a small amount. But instead, it is advisable to rinse your mouth.

Decryption

The lipid profile analysis provides detailed information necessary for the upcoming treatment, showing five main values.

total cholesterol

This indicator is not a "horror story" for a patient taking a blood test for a lipid profile. This substance, necessary for the body, is involved in the formation of tissue cells, cell membranes, sex hormones, human growth and development. Cholesterol is produced by liver cells, and a fifth of the total amount (under normal nutrition) comes into the body through food.

A feature of cholesterol, like any lipid (fatty substance), is its inability to dissolve in a liquid medium and move in it. The function of transporting cholesterol through the blood vessels is performed by lipoproteins, which are able to combine with lipids due to the mixed protein-fat shell.

high density lipoproteins

These substances are called good cholesterol, or HDL, for short. By structure, they are 50% protein and are responsible for human health, transferring unnecessary cholesterol from the vessels to the liver, which is processed into bile. Thus, good cholesterol keeps blood vessels from becoming clogged with bad cholesterol – LDL.

low density lipoproteins

Harmful LDL substances stick to the walls of blood vessels. The concentration of bad cholesterol creates, preventing the movement of blood to vital organs. This situation puts a person at risk of developing cardiovascular pathologies. Compared to HDL, the main component of LDL is cholesterol - 42%.

The three main indicators of the lipid spectrum according to age are presented in the table:

Very low density lipoproteins

The purpose of the fraction is to deliver neutral fatty substances (, TG) from the liver to the peripheral system. TG predominate in the structure of transport substances of very low density and account for 55%.

VLDL particles are relatively large in size and low in density, therefore, when moving through narrow peripheral vessels, they barely squeeze forward and can decompose into several lipid fragments. These pieces settle on the walls of blood vessels, harden, becoming an atherosclerotic plaque, by analogy with LDL.

Triglycerides

These are neutral fats that supply energy to the cells of the body. Unused THs are stored in reserve, but when they are in excess, they are harmful to health. With elevated values ​​of TG and LDL, the risk of developing cardiovascular disorders increases several times.

The norms of HDL, LDL and TG values ​​in women according to the age scale are presented in the table (substance values ​​are indicated in mmol / l):

Number of years	HDL	LDL	TG
Up to 14	0,91-1,90	1,61-3,61	0,31-1,41
15-20	0,92-1,91	1,54-3,55	0,43-1,49
21-25	0,87-2,04	1,49-4,12	0,41-1,54
26-30	0,97-2,15	1,85-4,25	0,41-1,49
31-35	0,94-1,99	1,82-4,04	0,43-1,64
36-40	0,89-2,12	1,95-4,45	0,43-1,69
41-45	0,89-2,28	1,93-4,51	0,46-1,92
46-50	0,89-2,25	2,06-4,82	0,50-2,15
51-55	0,97-2,38	2,29-5,21	0,51-2,43
56-60	0,97-2,35	2,32-5,44	0,58-2,64
61-65	0,99-2,38	2,60-5,80	0,63-2,97
66-70	0,92-2,48	2,39-5,72	0,64-2,70
After 70	0,86-2,38	2,50-5,34	0,59-2,70

The lipid profile of the blood of patients over the age of 50 years can significantly deviate from the norm. By these years, women gradually lose protection by sex hormones from atherosclerotic changes in the vessels.

As for men, their body is not at all protected from the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and over the years, the stronger sex accumulates problems in lipid metabolism due to smoking, taking, fatty foods, exposure to stress. Therefore, people after 50 need to take negative changes in the body seriously.

The norm of lipid spectrum readings in children in mmol / l looks like this:

In infants less than a month old, the cholesterol level in mmol / l should be in the range of 1.4-4.4; in children from 2 to 12 months - 1.7-4.9.

Atherogenic coefficient (KA)

This indicator is calculated by dividing the value of LDL by HDL.

KA \u003d (X - HDL) / HDL.

The numerator can be found by subtracting the HDL value from the amount of total cholesterol.

The ratio of good and bad cholesterol, which shows KA, notifies the presence or absence of cardiovascular disease, as well as the stage of development.

When is an analysis ordered?

Blood donation for a lipid profile is carried out with the following indications:

• upon reaching 30 years and older - every 5 years;
• lack of physical activity and, as a result, various degrees of obesity;
• diseases with a symptom of high cholesterol: diabetes mellitus, heart disease, problems with cerebral vessels, hypertension, atherosclerosis, endocrine disorders - every six months;
• smoking;
• for preventive purposes during mass examinations;
• elevated cholesterol in the lipid profile;
• taking drugs to lower LDL;
• hereditary diseases.

Donating blood for a lipid profile in a private medical center is estimated at an average of 700 rubles. Depending on the quality of the equipment, the level of the clinic, the geographical location and the regional status of the settlement, the cost of this analysis can range from 500 to 1500 rubles. Lipid spectrum tests are valid for up to 6 months.

What is being researched

In addition to the violation of lipid metabolism, which was discussed in detail above, using a lipid profile, the degree of risk of a number of diseases is studied with increased or decreased levels of substances in the blood. These pathologies include heart attacks, strokes, kidney disorders, diseases with concomitant abnormal cholesterol.

In the process of laboratory diagnostics, the patient's risk group is determined taking into account gender, age, heredity, bad habits, overweight, cholesterol levels and other factors. Based on this, the cardiologist prescribes medication with a strict selection of drugs and a course of treatment.

What do deviations from the norm mean?

The results of spectral analysis for lipids suggest possible or occurred violations in the body. So, high cholesterol, inside which the real reasons for the increase in value are hidden, can tentatively report pathologies:

• malnutrition and lack of mobility, which sooner or later lead to cardiovascular problems;
• heredity;
• bad habits (smoking, alcohol);
• diabetes mellitus, pancreatic disease;
• renal failure;
• acute inflammatory or infectious process.

Low cholesterol concentration gives a preliminary signal in diseases:

• thyroid gland;
• liver;
• intestines;
• blood;
• sepsis;
• joints;
• lungs.

Also, downward deviations in cholesterol levels can warn of diet abuse, elemental starvation, and malnutrition.

The list of specific reasons for unsatisfactory results of the analysis is given by the decoding of the indicators following the cholesterol.

A slightly higher HDL value guarantees the body protection against vascular diseases. If this indicator is abnormally high (more than 2.3 mmol / l), then it is associated with inherited disorders of fat metabolism; huge physical exertion, cirrhosis of the liver, alcohol abuse, cancer.

Basically, HDL deviates from the norm in a smaller direction and the following can be involved in this:

• chronic diseases of the liver and kidneys;
• endocrine pathologies, including diabetes mellitus;
• acute viral infections;
• atherosclerosis;
• heart attack.

An excess of bad cholesterol, which is brought by LDL and indirectly by VLDL, informs about the problems that have arisen:

• pancreatic disease;
• weakening of renal functions;
• gout (accumulation of uric acid salts in joints, tissues, organs);
• hypothyroidism (insufficient functioning of the thyroid gland);
• atherosclerosis of varying degrees.

A low value of LDL and VLDL is observed in isolated cases, informing about the following:

• a problem with the respiratory system;
• hyperthyroidism (abnormally active thyroid gland);
• acute liver failure (mainly in children);
• anemia.

An increase in triglyceride levels occurs when:

• kidney diseases;
• hepatitis B and C;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• gout;
• hereditary thalassemia, which occurs when hemoglobin synthesis is impaired;
• inflammation of the pancreas;
• chronic alcoholism;
• excess calcium in the blood;
• atherosclerosis;
• transferred infarction.

Low triglycerides are present in people with disorders:

• in the respiratory system;
• excessive functioning of the thyroid gland;
• in nutrition.

The atherogenic coefficient (KA) reflects the ratio of bad and good cholesterol. Its value is directly proportional to LDL, that is, the higher the bad cholesterol, the greater the atherogenic coefficient. Having calculated the CA, one can talk about the development of diseases associated with the blood supply. A lower rate indicates a minimal risk of cardiovascular pathologies.

Blood lipidogram is an effective technique that provides information for diagnosis. An experienced specialist makes a conclusion, considering all the factors in the patient's history.

Lipidogram is a comprehensive clinical study that allows you to evaluate the content of lipids (fats) in cells and their ratio. It helps to find the slightest deviations from the norm, which may be a sign of developing diseases of the vessels, kidneys, liver, gallbladder. Reliably shows the probability of the presence of severe chronic vascular diseases only lipidogram, decoding in adults shows the norm of total cholesterol, "bad" and "good" lipoproteins, their ratio to each other. The balance of cholesterol in the blood plasma varies greatly with age, gender, diseases and seasonality. The norm of lipoproteins in adults for each case is determined separately for men and women. In women, rates vary greatly from pregnancy, menstrual cycle, and time of menopause.

Periodic blood sampling for lipoproteins allows you to analyze each pathology and take preventive and therapeutic measures in time.

Preparation for analysis

Lipidogram refers to the classical type of biochemical analysis. It should be borne in mind that such a study is carried out only by official medicine. This procedure is the collection of samples from the human body. During a lipid examination, the biomaterials that need to be taken are specified in advance, for which they consult with a doctor. They usually donate blood and urine. Their indicators directly show the nature of the functioning of the human body, the level of metabolic processes and other aspects. To obtain reliable indicators in biochemistry, the patient needs to be properly prepared. Eliminate fatty foods from your diet. It is important to stop taking drugs for some time, which will eliminate their effect on the amount of cholesterol in the blood. If drugs are taken that change the content of natural alcohol in the cells, then you need to stop taking them at least two weeks in advance. If the purpose of the lipidogram is to detect the body's response to the effects of certain substances, then an appropriate technique is prescribed before the analysis.

When referring to the lipid profile for one week, small adjustments are made to the existing lifestyle, leaving the main points unchanged. Preparation for the analysis is reduced to the following:

1. You should not drastically change the usual nutritious diet, switch to strict diets, and conduct prolonged fasting.
2. Try not to get sick, as the slightest ailment can distort the results of the analysis.
3. Avoid stressful conditions. Cholesterol is a substance whose concentration strongly depends not only on health, but also on the general emotional state.
4. Stop strenuous exercise and sports.
5. You should refrain from smoking and drinking any alcoholic beverages.
6. Chronic liver and kidney diseases distort the results.

It is necessary to take tests, taking into account all of these factors. Why consult a doctor beforehand. This will help you prepare properly. Preparation prior to analysis is no less important than the study itself. Medicine uses a single standardized method of biochemistry for cholesterol. This is the so-called Abel or Ilk method.

When to study the lipid spectrum

Every relatively healthy person who monitors his condition can go to the hospital at any time for cholesterol levels. Modern medicine recommends to undergo periodic examinations on the lipid spectrum. The norm of the time interval for such events is no more than five years. From the age of twenty, you can already begin to worry about your health. Lipidogram is required in the presence of coronary heart disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, kidney disease. Periodic examinations are indicated for people with a birth predisposition to hypercholesterolemia, strokes and myocardial infarctions. Deciphering the lipidogram helps doctors control the treatment process and the effect of dietary nutrition.

Adults with the following features are at risk for high cholesterol levels:

• men over 45, women over 55;
• smoking abuse;
• excessive intake of alcoholic beverages;
• overweight;
• disturbed metabolism;
• high blood pressure;
• lack of physical activity;
• chronic endocrine diseases;
• painful heredity;
• poor diet with excess animal fats.

Tables of norms for children and adult women and men

Lipidogram indicators in women, men and children require their interpretation, since the number of lipoproteins in cells in both sexes and at different ages varies greatly. There is a single international table that indicates the norm of cholesterol for any age with a five-year interval: total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins and high density lipoproteins. It shows figures for men and women.

How to pass the analysis correctly, and what affects the result

Periodic examination and timely medical assistance

Normally healthy people do not like to visit a doctor. The appearance of painful symptoms is referred to as fatigue. And about atherosclerosis and cholesterol, they have mythical ideas from the Internet and newspapers. But in reality, it often turns out that the disease is much closer. Periodic passage of the lipid profile with careful decoding by an experienced specialist will allow you to take timely measures to treat and prevent the severe consequences of lipid metabolism disorders: atherosclerosis, stroke, heart attack.

Each of us took a blood test for cholesterol (lipidogram, lipid spectrum). Everyone knows that high cholesterol is very bad. Is it so? Let's also talk about the norms of the lipid profile and the requirements for passing this analysis.

If you want to live longer, take a blood test for cholesterol regularly.

Cholesterol and its purpose

Cholesterol is an essential component of the body. It takes part in the synthesis of bile and sex hormones and is responsible for the elasticity and hardness of cell membranes. Most of the substance is produced in the liver. Less - gets with foodstuff.

There are two types: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The wrong proportion of these compounds, as well as an increase in total cholesterol, can cause heart problems. However, cholesterol plays a vital role in cell metabolism, brain function, and providing the body with antioxidants.
Let's take a closer look at the types of cholesterol.

LDL - is considered "bad cholesterol", but in fact the negative effect of the substance on the body is exaggerated. So, the component has the ability to destroy toxins. But with a significant increase in the content, it is able to form sclerotic plaques.

HDL is considered "good cholesterol" due to its ability to thin cholesterol plaques.

The purpose of LDL is to return cholesterol from distant parts of the body to the liver for further processing. The importance of the substance in the metabolism of vitamin D and the synthesis of hormones is great.
Triglycerides as components of very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) are involved only in the formation of cholesterol plaques.

Cholesterol is one of the main parameters of fat metabolism.

A blood test for cholesterol is called a Lipidogram. It makes it possible to diagnose the following diseases:

• atherosclerosis;
• cardiac ischemia;
• dysfunction of the kidneys and liver;
• dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
• diabetes;
• obesity.

Experts advise to periodically conduct a blood test for cholesterol to healthy people in order to timely identify possible deviations and correct the diet. Research should be carried out not only on total cholesterol, but also on the level of each type separately. The ratio of the three types of cholesterol gives a complete picture of a person's health.

Having received the results of the lipidogram, you should not attempt to decipher it yourself. The laboratory letterhead contains information that the norms of indicators depend on the research method. Therefore, only a specialist can evaluate the result.

If cholesterol is high

An increase in the indicator indicates the occurrence of such problems:

1. Cardiac ischemia;
2. Atherosclerosis;
3. Diseases of the kidneys and liver;
4. Diabetes;
5. Violation of the function of the pancreas;
6. Purulent inflammatory process.

In the elderly (over 85 years), cholesterol levels may be elevated. It is believed that this prevents the development of cancer.

If cholesterol is low

Since cholesterol is necessary for normal metabolism, its lowering affects the state of health.

Common causes of hypocholesteremia (reducing blood cholesterol) are excessive dieting, smoking, and frequent stress.

Low blood cholesterol may indicate:

• infectious diseases;
• increased thyroid function;
• disturbances in the work of the heart.

Thus, a blood test for cholesterol allows you to identify the occurrence and development of a variety of diseases. At the same time, not only the overall level of the indicator is of great importance, but the ratio of LDL and HDL.

You have already understood that the presence of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) leads to the development of problems with blood vessels, and “good” (HDL) is necessary for normal metabolism.

How to donate blood for cholesterol

Preparation and requirements for conducting a study to determine the content of cholesterol

You need to donate blood from a vein. Such studies are carried out by each laboratory. To obtain the most reliable result, preparation is necessary:

1. You need to donate blood on an empty stomach. The last meal should be at least 10 hours before the procedure. But you should not fast for more than 14 hours.
2. Exclude the use of fatty foods 2 days before the study. This is especially true for overweight people.
3. Refuse to drink alcoholic beverages the day before blood donation.
4. Limit smoking until the test (at least a few hours).
5. Do not drink soft drinks 6 hours before the test.
6. In case of severe thirst, the patient is allowed to drink a glass of still water on the eve of the analysis.
7. Half an hour before donating blood, the patient should sit or lie down, especially if before the analysis he walked quickly or climbed the stairs.
8. Before you donate blood, it is not recommended to take x-rays.
9. Certain drugs can affect blood cholesterol levels. Therefore, you should inform your doctor about taking medications. Before taking a blood test for cholesterol, it is necessary to stop taking lipid-lowering drugs.

Menstruation does not affect cholesterol levels. Therefore, women can donate blood during menstruation.

It often happens that patients are pre-configured for pain and discomfort during blood sampling. Such people are advised not to watch the blood sampling process, but to turn away and think about something pleasant.
After the procedure, you should sit for a while, and then go out into the fresh air.

You can get the results of the analysis the very next day.

Pharmacies sell special tests to determine the level of cholesterol at home. However, the results of such studies are not sufficiently reliable.

Deciphering the lipid profile

So, you received the result of a blood test for cholesterol and you see the results of several indicators there.

Components of a lipid profile:

• total cholesterol;
• high and low density lipoproteins;
• triglycerides (TG);
• atherogenic index (or KA - atherogenic coefficient).

Remember!

A normal indicator of total cholesterol (total cholesterol) is a figure below 5 mmol / l. But if you have had a heart attack, stroke (stroke), are sick with coronary artery disease, angina pectoris, diabetes mellitus, intermittent claudication, then total cholesterol should be below 4.0 mmol / l, and LDL levels should be less than 1.8 mmol / l.

The HDL value should be high enough so that the atherogenic index is above three (HDL - from 0.70 to 1.73 mmol / l).

An increase in LDL means an atherogenic pathology, which indicates the possible appearance of atherosclerosis. A decrease in the indicator indicates the manifestation of an anti-atherogenic fraction, which reduces the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis.

HDL norm: for men - 0.72 - 1.63 mmol / l, for women 0.86-2.28 mmol / l. If HDL and LDL are normal, the vessels tend to gradually clear. But if LDL is above normal, and HDL is below normal, then this means that atherosclerosis is progressing in the body.

Triglycerides are organic compounds that enter the human body with food. Their synthesis occurs in the cells of adipose tissue, and then in the liver.

An increase in triglycerides indicates the following problems:

• diabetes;
• pancreatitis;
• hypothyroidism;
• liver disease;
• obesity;
• kidney failure.

Triglycerides can increase with the use of hormonal contraceptives and during pregnancy.

A decrease in triglycerides indicates the presence of the following pathologies:

• nutrient deficiency;
• kidney disease;
• injuries and burns;
• heart attack;
• chronic lung diseases;
• hyperthyroidism.

Excessive intake of vitamin C helps lower triglyceride levels.

The norm of the atherogenic index may vary depending on the age of the subject. For children, the norm can be 1–1.5, for people over 40 years old, 2.5–3.5 units, for middle age, the indicator ranges from 2 to 3. If the atherogenic index is above 3, this indicates that the risk development of atherosclerosis is very high.

An increase in the atherogenic index to 7–8 units is critical and requires immediate therapeutic measures.

A cholesterol blood test (lipidogram) can tell a lot about your health. It is important to pass it correctly and not to decipher the lipidogram results yourself. Let the doctor do it!

One of the most important analyzes is the lipid profile. This biochemical laboratory test allows you to determine the content of lipids in the blood - organic compounds based on fats.

By observing the lipid profile, doctors can diagnose many pathologies at an early stage, especially cardiovascular diseases.

A blood lipid profile is prescribed for people with diseases that require constant monitoring of cholesterol levels, with violations of the cardiovascular system in relatives (that is, with suspicion of the presence of hereditary factors), with excess weight, for the elderly.

In addition, the examination is often carried out in order to monitor the course of treatment during routine preventive examinations at work.

Preparation for a lipid profile is standard - the same as before any other blood sampling for research.

The procedure itself is carried out in most cases in the morning, since it is at this time that the level of various elements is most accurate.

Experts note that experiences and worries affect the content of lipids in the blood, so it is recommended not to be nervous on the day of the lipid profile.

Due to the mobilization of the body, physical activity is also undesirable - it is better to start resting a day before the procedure.

Eating various foods can also distort the results of the lipid profile, so the blood test is taken on an empty stomach.

The last time you are allowed to eat is in the evening the day before the procedure, so that at least eight to twelve hours have passed.

From the diet for two to three days before the lipid profile, it is recommended to remove fatty, spicy, salty, heavy foods.

Under no circumstances should alcoholic beverages be consumed. It is best to stop smoking at least one hour before the procedure.

The level of lipids in the blood is very strongly influenced by various medications. A few days before the analysis, it is better to stop taking any medication.

An exception is the situation in which a person's life depends on taking medications.

In this case, be sure to inform the doctor about all the medications taken. The doctor will take into account this factor distorting the picture when obtaining the results of the lipid profile.

It should be noted that for the doctor it is not the presence of these organic compounds that is important, but deviations from the norm, which indicate the development of various pathologies.

Lipids are present in every person, because it is from them that cell membranes are built. In addition, fat-based compounds, being transported to the tissues of the body, are a source of energy.

What does a lipidogram check?

During a blood test for lipids, five indicators are usually checked. The first of them, familiar to everyone, is total cholesterol.

This organic compound can be exogenous (entering the body with food, its share is twenty percent) and endogenous (produced in the liver, intestines, adrenal glands).

Cholesterol takes an important part in the formation of cell membranes, tissues, and is responsible for the overall development of the body.

Without this organic compound, the production of vitamin D, sex and steroid hormones (testosterone, progesterone, estrogen, cortisol) is impossible.

In the lipidogram table, you can notice the designations of HDL, LDL and VLDL that are incomprehensible to many.

The first abbreviation stands for high density lipoproteins (they are also called "good" or alpha cholesterol).

The main duty of HDL is the removal of free cholesterol from the cells, which then enters the liver and leaves the body.

The second abbreviation stands for low-density lipoprotein (“bad” or beta-cholesterol). These lipids have the ability to linger in the vessels, attaching to the walls, which can later lead to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.

VLDL stands for very low density lipoprotein. Scientists have not yet proven that these lipids are in any way involved in the development of cardiovascular disease.

Conducting a lipidogram in some laboratories does not include checking the level of very low density lipoproteins due to the low information content of the data obtained.

In some cases, when the blood for analysis needs to be taken urgently, and the patient has recently taken food, the VLDL content is taken instead of the LDL indicator.

The last type of lipids, the content of which is shown by a blood test, are triglycerides (decoding sometimes shows the designation "TG").

These substances are compounds of fatty acids and glycerol, are produced in adipose tissues and are present in the body in small quantities.

Triglycerides are an excellent source of energy, besides taking an active part in the formation of cell membranes.

Another important value that is not obtained directly from a blood test, but is calculated in the future, is the atherogenic coefficient.

This ratio shows the ratio of atherogenic to anti-atherogenic lipids. Depending on this indicator, the doctor assesses the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.

Lipid content standards

The levels of lipoproteins in the blood are measured in millimoles per liter. The normal level of total cholesterol does not depend on gender, but changes with age.

If the child is less than a month old, then the norm will be from 1.3 to 4.4 mmol / l. In a year, healthy indicators increase slightly - up to 1.6 - 4.9 millimoles per liter of blood.

Up to fourteen years, values ​​​​from 2.8 to 5.2 are considered the norm, in adults up to sixty years old - 2.8 - 5.9, in older people - 3.6 - 7.1 mmol / l.

Normal high-density lipoprotein levels are affected by both gender and age. Until the age of fourteen, the norm for both boys and girls is considered to be from 0.9 to 1.9 mmol / l.

At the age of thirty in women, normal values ​​remain approximately the same, while in men they decrease markedly - to 0.72 - 1.63 millimoles per liter of blood.

At the age of fifty, the norms for the fairer sex are already 0.96 - 2.38 mmol / l. In men, compared with the age of thirty, there are no changes.

At seventy years of age, in women, values ​​​​from 0.85 to 2.38 are considered normal, in the representatives of the stronger sex - from 0.8 to 1.94 millimoles per liter.

At the age of thirty, in men, the norm is from 2.02 to 4.79, in women - 1.84 - 4.04 mmol / l.

At fifty, normal values ​​\u200b\u200bwill be 2.31 - 5.1 for the stronger sex and from 2.28 to 5.21 millimoles per liter for the weak.

In people over the age of seventy, the norms for low-density lipoprotein content are 2.39 - 5.34 mmol / l, regardless of gender.

The normal level of triglycerides, as a rule, is significantly lower than the content of other lipids. In adolescence, the norms vary from 0.3 to 1.4 mmol / l for both boys and girls.

At thirty years, normal values ​​​​for men are considered to be from 0.56 to 3.01, for women - 0.42 - 1.63 millimoles per liter.

At the age of fifty, in the representatives of the stronger sex, the norms remain the same, while in women they increase slightly - up to 0.52 - 2.42 mmol / l.

At seventy, gender ceases to affect healthy indicators, which range from 0.6 to 2.8 millimoles per liter of blood.

The normal coefficient of atherogenicity should be in the range from one and a half to two and a half. If this indicator is in the range from two and a half to three, then this indicates a low risk of atherosclerosis.

Values ​​between three and four indicate moderate risk. An indicator of more than four indicates that coronary heart disease or atherosclerosis is already present, and there is a high probability of a heart attack, stroke, and thrombosis of the extremities.

Deviations from the norm

If the results of the lipid profile do not correspond to the norm, then doctors conduct additional diagnostics in order to detect pathologies that caused an increase or decrease in lipid levels.

At the same time, the actual values ​​tell the doctor which diseases are most likely present in the human body.

For example, an increase in very low density lipoproteins is almost always caused by kidney disease, lupus erythematosus, Niemann-Pick syndrome, pituitary insufficiency, or is a consequence of pregnancy or obesity.

A low level of total cholesterol, according to the results of a lipid profile, often indicates diseases such as anemia (anemia), hyperthyroidism (excessive production of thyroid hormones), and fever.

A downward deviation from the norm can still signal the patient's physical exhaustion.

If the level of total cholesterol on the lipid profile is elevated, then this is a sign of the presence in the body of kidney ailments, pancreatitis, diabetes, hypothyroidism, hepatitis, cirrhosis, coronary heart disease, and pancreatic cancer.

In addition, a high content of this lipid may indicate pregnancy, obesity or alcoholism in a patient.

High-density lipoproteins increase with existing malignant tumors in the intestines, cirrhosis of the liver, chronic alcoholism, or regular excessive physical exertion.

If HDL levels are lowered on the lipid profile, then this can signal an infection in the acute stage, atherosclerosis, peptic ulcer, tuberculosis, coronary heart disease, heart attack, and kidney disorders.

Lipidogram may show a deviation in the level of low-density lipoprotein down from the norm.

In this case, we can talk about the patient's hyperthyroidism, anemia, various lung diseases, Tangier and Reye syndromes, chronic disorders of digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.

An increased content of LDL on the lipid profile can be caused by diseases of the liver and kidneys, hypothyroidism, diabetes, anorexia.

In addition, low-density lipoprotein levels increase with overweight and malnutrition (excessive consumption of foods high in cholesterol).

If the lipidogram showed a low level of triglycerides, then this indicates hyperthyroidism or chronic lung disease. In addition, such a deviation from the norm occurs with a meager diet of the same type.

Elevated levels of triglycerides on the lipid profile signal the occurrence in the body of coronary heart disease, hepatitis, hypertension, atherosclerosis, or myocardial infarction.

Lipidogram is the most important study that allows you to determine the content of fat-based organic compounds in the blood.

If the level of lipids is increased or decreased, then this most likely indicates the presence of certain diseases in the body.

In case of deviations from the norm on the lipid profile, doctors prescribe additional studies, diagnose the disease and begin treatment.