Lipoprotein disorders overview
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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Lipoprotein Disorders Microchapters |
Overview
Hyperlipidemia is the presence of raised or abnormal levels of lipids and/or lipoproteins in the blood. Lipids (fatty molecules) are transported in a protein capsule, and the density of the lipids and type of protein determines the fate of the particle and its influence on metabolism. Hyperlipidemia can occur as either a primary event or secondary to some underlying disease. The primary hyperlipidemias are associated with overproduction and/or impaired removal of lipoproteins. The latter defect can be induced by an abnormality in either the lipoprotein itself or in the lipoprotein receptor.
Lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities are extremely common in the general population, and are regarded as a highly modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease due to the influence of cholesterol, one of the most clinically relevant lipid substances, on atherosclerosis. In addition, some forms may predispose to acute pancreatitis.