What is the most appropriate management for a patient diagnosed with severe hyperlipidaemia post-thyroidectomy?

In cases of severe hyperlipidaemia, particularly following a thyroidectomy, initiating statin therapy is a crucial step in management. This is because thyroid hormone plays a significant role in lipid metabolism, and a decrease in thyroid hormone levels post-thyroidectomy can lead to increased levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Statins are effective at reducing LDL cholesterol and overall cardiovascular risk, making them a suitable choice as they directly target the dyslipidemia.

While dietary changes and lifestyle modifications are important components of managing any lipid disorder, they may not be sufficient as a stand-alone treatment, especially in severe cases. Statin therapy provides a more direct and powerful means of controlling lipid levels and mitigating the risks of cardiovascular events that may arise from significantly elevated lipids.

Fibrates can also help lower triglyceride levels, but statins have a broader effect on the lipid profile and are generally the first-line treatment for hyperlipidaemia. Therefore, initiating statin therapy not only aligns with current clinical guidelines but effectively addresses the immediate need to manage severe hyperlipidaemia post-thyroidectomy.