Metabolic Syndrome: a Clinical Case Report and Literature Review

Background/Aims: To present a clinical case of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to provide a concise pathophysiological overview with emphasis on underlying metabolic and inflammatory mechanisms. Methods: This study is a case report combined with a focused literature review. We describe a patient with MetS who was evaluated and treated at the Hospital of Vietnam National University in Hanoi, Vietnam. Results: A 20-year-old male presented with headaches and palpitations. Clinical examination revealed obesity (BMI 37.1) with a waist circumference of 111 cm, dyslipidemia (triglycerides/HDL-cholesterol/LDL-cholesterol/total cholesterol: 3.84/1.15/4.39/7.29 mmol/L), and hyperglycemia (blood glucose 7.07 mmol/L, HbA1c 7.2%). The patient also exhibited sinus tachycardia (114 beats/min) and elevated blood pressure (170/102 mmHg left arm, 162/100 mmHg right arm), which was confirmed by 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. The triglyceride-to-HDL cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL) was calculated as approximately 3.34, indicating significant insulin resistance and increased cardiovascular risk. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and hypertension was established. The clinical phenotype is consistent with adipose tissue dysfunction, chronic low-grade inflammation, and insulin resistance, which contribute to dyslipidemia and activation of neurohormonal pathways such as the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. The patient received prompt medical treatment and achieved clinical stabilization. Conclusion: This case highlights the early manifestation of metabolic syndrome and illustrates its underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Effective management requires early diagnosis and a combined approach including lifestyle modification, weight reduction, and individualized pharmacological therapy to improve metabolic control and reduce the risk of long-term cardiovascular complications.