Lipids Flashcards
What are the main categories of lipids?
- Chylomicrons
- VLDL
- LDL
- HDL
What is the primary characteristic of chylomicrons?
Not measured (white particles at the top)
What does VLDL stand for?
Very light density lipoproteins
What is the role of LDL in blood vessels?
Can hide in crevices, leading to buildup and narrowing of blood vessels
What is the function of HDL?
High concentration – can find LDL to remove it
What role do lipids play in atherosclerosis?
Contribute to plaque buildup
What does TIA stand for?
Transient ischemic accidents
What is the reference range for total cholesterol?
3.6 – 5.2 mmol/L
What is the reference range for HDL?
1.0 – 2.0 mmol/L
What is the reference range for LDL?
1.3 – 3.4 mmol/L
What is the reference range for triglycerides?
0.7 – 1.7 mmol/L
Is fasting necessary for total cholesterol testing?
Not fasting necessary
What is the Friedwald calculation used for?
Calculation for LDL
Fill in the blank: Total Cholesterol – HDL – (Triglyceride)/2.2 = _______.
[LDL]
What happens if triglycerides exceed 4.51?
You cannot calculate LDL
How is non-HDL cholesterol calculated?
Total cholesterol – HDL
What are the sample requirements for lipid testing?
- Fasting
- Non-fasting
What is pseudohyponatremia?
Electrolyte exclusion effect causing falsely decreased sodium
What effect does high triglyceride levels have on sodium measurement?
Causes low sodium reading, electrolyte exclusion effect
How can pseudohyponatremia be fixed?
Ultra-centrifugation
What is the role of the LAD artery?
Easily blocked; can lead to myocardial infarction
What is myocardial infarction commonly known as?
Heart attack
What are some treatments for a myocardial infarction?
- Blood thinners
- Stents
- Angioplasty
- Bypass surgery
How can arthrosclerosis cause a myocardial infarction?
Hardened piece of plaque build up in the walls of blood vessles can be freed forming a clot which block blood flow to the heart.
