Metabolic syndrome: clinical-theoretical discussion of the diagnosis

Abstract

The metabolic syndrome has become one of the major public-health challenges worldwide. But is it a clinically useful tool? The discussion over the issue has been joined. The aim to provide one practical definition to replace the existing ones is crucial. In almost every way - from the term itself, to the underlying patophysiology, to the variables included or excluded to the value of making diagnosis, and finally to its treatment - the metabolic syndrome requires much more study before its designation as a ìsyndromeî is truly warranted and before its clinical utility is adequately defined. We review current discussion on the metabolic syndrome.