Rational therapy of mixed dyslipidaemia in a patient with diabetes

Diabetic dyslipidaemia refers to the triad of elevated levels of triglycerides and small, dense LDL-C particles and low levels of HDL-C. These lipid abnormalities are largely responsible for the increased risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with diabetes. This case study outlines a rational approach to the treatment of each of these lipid abnormalities and emphasises the importance of both lowering the LDL-C and raising the HDL-C in high-risk individuals. Combination drug therapy will often be necessary to achieve treatment goals in these patients.