Lipid disorders and rheumatic diseases.

ABSTRACT

Lipid abnormalities can exist in patients with rheumatic diseases. Many mechanisms give rise to these abnormalities and include treatment with corticosteroids and upregulation of certain cytokines in active rheumatic disease. Premature atherosclerosis can occur in these patients with significant morbidity and mortality. Greater awareness and earlier treatment of these lipid problems may lead to better outcomes.