Ulta Lab Tests

Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Cardio IQ Triglycerides , Triglycerides Cardio IQ

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.
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The Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker .

Brief Description: The Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test is a specialized assessment that measures the concentration of triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in the blood. The body converts any calories it doesn't use right away into triglycerides, which are stored in fat cells. Later, hormones release triglycerides for energy between meals.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: If a Triglyceride measurement is to be performed along with other lipid tests, the patient should fast 9-12 hours prior to collection.

This is a Cardio IQ™ test and will likely need an additional 5-7 days for processing compared to the standard version of the test, Triglycerides #896.

When and Why a Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides Test May be Ordered

A Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test may be ordered as part of a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health, especially in individuals who have known risk factors for heart disease or those with a family history of lipid metabolism disorders. The test might also be ordered for individuals who present symptoms of high triglyceride levels or for monitoring the effects of lipid-lowering medications.

What the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides Test Checks For

The Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test specifically measures the amount of triglycerides present in the blood. Elevated levels of triglycerides can be an indicator of an increased risk for heart disease and may also suggest other conditions related to fat metabolism.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides Test

When a Cardio IQ Triglycerides test is ordered, it's usually part of a broader evaluation of lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. Lipid Panel:

    • Purpose: To measure levels of total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, and triglycerides.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To provide a comprehensive view of lipid metabolism and to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease.

  2. LDL Particle Size and Number (LDL-P):

    • Purpose: To measure the number and size of LDL particles.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Small, dense LDL particles are considered more atherogenic (likely to form plaques in arteries) and may indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, even if total LDL levels are normal.

  3. High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP):

    • Purpose: To detect low levels of inflammation in the body.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess cardiovascular risk, as inflammation plays a significant role in atherosclerosis.

  4. Apolipoprotein B (ApoB):

    • Purpose: To measure the level of ApoB, a protein found in LDL and VLDL particles.
    • Why Is It Ordered: ApoB levels can provide additional information on cardiovascular risk, particularly in individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes.

  5. Fasting Blood Glucose and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c):

    • Purpose: To measure blood sugar levels and long-term glucose control.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess for diabetes or prediabetes, as impaired glucose metabolism can impact lipid levels and cardiovascular risk.

  6. Liver Function Test:

    • Purpose: To assess liver health.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To evaluate liver function, as liver diseases can impact lipid metabolism.

  7. Thyroid Function Tests:

    • Purpose: To assess thyroid gland function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Hypothyroidism can lead to elevated triglyceride levels.

  8. Kidney Function Test:

    • Purpose: To assess kidney function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Kidney disease can affect lipid metabolism and contribute to dyslipidemia.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Cardio IQ Triglycerides test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors and help in diagnosing and managing conditions related to lipid metabolism. They are crucial for understanding the overall risk of heart disease and guiding lifestyle and medical interventions to improve lipid profiles and reduce cardiovascular risk. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s risk factors, symptoms, and medical history.

Conditions or Diseases that Require a Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides Test

Several conditions or diseases may be linked with or result in elevated triglyceride levels, including:

  • Metabolic syndrome: A cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
  • Coronary artery disease: Accumulation of cholesterol plaques in arteries of the heart.
  • Diabetes: Especially when blood sugar is not well-controlled.
  • Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones.
  • Obesity: Being significantly overweight can elevate triglyceride levels.

Usage of Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides Test Results by Health Care Providers

Healthcare providers use the results of the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test to:

  • Assess Risk: Elevated triglyceride levels are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Monitor Treatment Effectiveness: In patients taking lipid-lowering medications, the test can gauge the drug's effect.
  • Guide Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations: High triglycerides can sometimes be managed with dietary changes and exercise. The test results can help guide these recommendations.
  • Determine Next Steps: Extremely high levels might warrant further testing or evaluation for underlying metabolic or genetic conditions.

Understanding the results, especially in the context of other lipid panel tests, helps providers craft a personalized approach to managing and mitigating cardiovascular risks for their patients.

Most Common Questions About the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test:

Purpose and Indications for the Test

Why is the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test performed?

The Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test is conducted to measure the level of triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in the blood, and high levels can indicate an increased risk for heart disease and other metabolic conditions.

How can the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test help in cardiovascular risk assessment?

This test provides insights into the lipid profile of an individual. Elevated triglyceride levels, in combination with other factors like high LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, can elevate the risk for coronary artery disease. By identifying high triglyceride levels, healthcare professionals can recommend interventions to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Interpreting the Results

What do elevated results from the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test suggest?

Elevated triglyceride levels can suggest various conditions or risk factors, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, or a diet high in fats and carbohydrates. It might also indicate genetic factors that lead to higher production of triglycerides in the liver.

Implications and Management

If my Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test results are high, what steps can I take to lower my levels?

To lower triglyceride levels, a combination of dietary changes, increased physical activity, and potentially medications can be effective. This might include reducing the intake of sugars and unhealthy fats, consuming more omega-3 fatty acids, and losing weight if overweight.

How often should the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test be taken?

The frequency of testing depends on the individual's health status and risk factors. Those with elevated levels or at high risk for cardiovascular disease might need more frequent testing, while others with consistently normal levels might require less frequent monitoring.

Test Mechanisms and Specifics

How is the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test different from a standard triglycerides test?

The Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test is a part of the advanced lipid testing spectrum. While it measures triglyceride levels similar to a standard test, it's often bundled with other advanced lipid tests that provide a more comprehensive view of cardiovascular risk.

Can other conditions or factors impact the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test results?

Yes, other conditions like hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease, or certain genetic factors can influence triglyceride levels. Furthermore, certain medications, alcohol consumption, or even recent meals can transiently elevate triglyceride levels.

Additional Information

Can I undergo the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test if I have a known liver or kidney condition?

Yes, you can. In fact, individuals with liver or kidney conditions might benefit from monitoring their triglyceride levels. However, the results should be interpreted in the context of the overall clinical situation, and any testing should be done in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Is the Cardio IQ™ Triglycerides test useful for monitoring the effects of lipid-lowering medications?

Absolutely. Monitoring triglyceride levels while on lipid-lowering medications can help gauge the medication's effectiveness and determine if any adjustments in the treatment approach are needed.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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