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Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is the persistent elevation of fats (cholesterol and/or triglycerides) in the bloodstream. It is usually secondary to another disease rather than a primary condition.
Key Facts
- Most often secondary to diabetes-mellitus, hypothyroidism, cushings-syndrome, liver disease, or protein-losing nephropathy
- Predisposed breeds: Miniature Schnauzer, Beagle, Shetland Sheepdog, Briard, Rough Collie, Poodle
- Rare hereditary form in cats (detected after 8 months of age)
- Signs: appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pancreatitis, seizures, eye inflammation
- Diagnosis: 12-hour fasting blood panel with triglycerides and cholesterol
- Treatment: address underlying disease first; low-fat/high-fiber diet; fish oil supplements can help
- Statin drugs from human medicine generally not used in pets due to side effects
- Lifelong dietary management usually required
- Acute pancreatitis is a serious complication from high-fat food access
- Species: dogs and cats