There are no conclusive data regarding the association between dyslipidemia and the risk of ischemic stroke (IS). Clinical investigations have primarily focused on the association between elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol as stroke risk factors. Much less scientific attention has been aimed at elevated levels of triglycerides. Consequently the potential role of hypertriglyceridemia as an independent risk factor for IS remains controversial. However, accumulating evidence has shown that hypertriglyceridemia is associated with pathophysiological processes such as endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis and the production of a prothrombotic state, which could contribute to IS risk. The aim of this review is to critically analyze the contribution of hypertriglyceridemia to the occurrence of IS.
Copyright 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.