What does the Triglycerides test measure?

Why is Triglycerides measured?

Triglycerides contribute to cardiovascular risk assessment and are a sensitive marker of metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistance, often the earliest lipid abnormality in metabolic syndrome. They are also required for the Friedewald calculation of LDL-C, which becomes invalid above roughly 400 mg/dL. Distinct from atherosclerotic risk, markedly elevated triglycerides (above about 500 mg/dL, and especially above 1000 mg/dL) raise the risk of acute pancreatitis and warrant specific, often urgent, management.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

Normal: <150 mg/dL (<1.7 mmol/L); borderline high: 150–199 mg/dL; high: 200–499 mg/dL; very high: ≥500 mg/dL (pancreatitis risk) # REVIEWER FLAG: Thresholds and fasting versus non-fasting interpretation are guideline-dependent — reviewer to confirm framing and units.

Functional medicine optimal

<100 mg/dL is sometimes cited as optimal # REVIEWER FLAG: 'Optimal' triglyceride threshold below standard cut-offs is context-dependent — reviewer to confirm framing.

Units

mg/dL, mmol/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.