# Possible Link Between Macrocytosis and Hypertriglyceridemia: A Case Report

**Authors:** Jeremy I Purow, Joseph Luzarraga, Aron Berkman

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.92455 · Cureus · 2025-09-16

## TL;DR

This case report suggests a possible link between high triglycerides and macrocytosis, a condition with enlarged red blood cells.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a potential novel association between hypertriglyceridemia and unexplained macrocytosis.

## Key findings

- A 75-year-old woman had persistent macrocytosis with no common causes identified.
- She had markedly elevated triglyceride levels, suggesting a possible link.
- Further research is needed to explore how triglycerides might affect red blood cell size.

## Abstract

Macrocytosis is relatively common and can be due to various etiologies. More common causes include vitamin B12/folate deficiency, liver disease, alcohol use, hypothyroidism, and myelodysplastic syndrome. A work-up often yields the etiology, but in some patients, it remains elusive. We present a case of a 75-year-old female with persistent and unexplained macrocytosis. A work-up for the common causes was unremarkable. However, she had a markedly elevated triglyceride level. This report implies a possible association between hypertriglyceridemia and macrocytosis. Further study is warranted to explore this relationship and red blood cell uptake of triglycerides.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** hypertriglyceridemia (MONDO:0005347)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** hypothyroidism (MESH:D007037), Hypertriglyceridemia (MESH:D015228), vitamin B12/folate deficiency (MESH:D014806), myelodysplastic syndrome (MESH:D009190), liver disease (MESH:D008107), Macrocytosis (MESH:C564004)
- **Chemicals:** triglyceride (MESH:D014280), alcohol (MESH:D000438)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## References

7 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12530274/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12530274