Re: Angina

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - MTR on March 02, 1999 at 10:27:48:

In Reply to: Angina posted by Lisa on February 28, 1999 at 12:55:21:






I have been taking accutane for the last sixty days. During the course of
treatment blood work is scheduled. My baseline triglyceride level was within
normal range (188). The first scheduled blood draw after starting treatment my
triglycerides jumped to 467 (normal range 0-200). I did have the blood work
done at the same facility because I do realize methodologies differ from
lab to lab. My concern is that due to this increase in triglycerides I have
developed associated systems such as chest discomfort which includes chest
pressure and sometimes a pinching sensation. I have the pressure sensation
almost everyday. My doctor reduced my dosage from 80mg a day to 40mg and
asked that I reduce my fat intake. Will this cause permanent heart damage?
I am very concerned!





Dear Lisa, thank you for your question. The temporary elevation in your lipid levels should not cause acute chest pain/pressure and should not have a harmful effect long-term unless you have to take accutane chronically.  I suggest that you follow your physician's advice in reducing your dosage of accutane and your intake of fat.  Your triglycerides should also be monitored closely while you are on accutane.

I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions.  Good luck.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.   The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.