Test Details: This test is used for evaluation of risk factors in individuals with elevated cholesterol values. Increased plasma triglyceride levels are indicative of a metabolic abnormality and, along with elevated cholesterol, are considered a risk factor for atherosclerotic disease. Hyperlipidemia may be inherited or may be associated with biliary obstruction, diabetes mellitus, nephrotic syndrome, renal failure or metabolic disorders related to endocrinopathies. Increased triglycerides at times, may also be medication-induced. Since cholesterol and triglycerides can vary independently, measurement of both is more meaningful than the measurement of either individually.