Blood lipid levels, thyroid status, and glucose tolerance in progressive partial lipodystrophy.

Eight women with uncomplicated progressive partial lipodystrophy and two with progressive lipodystrophy and diabetes mellitus were studied. Plasma triglyceride levels were significantly elevated in the subjects with uncomplicated lipodystrophy; serum cholesterol, phospholipid, and plasma free fatty acid levels were normal. Paper electrophoresis showed increases in serum pre-beta lipoprotein and chylomicra. Thyroid function, as measured by radioiodine and stable iodine studies, was normal. Some subjects had a raised basal metabolic rate. Intravenous glucose tolerance was normal in patients with the uncomplicated disease.