The Common Hyperlipoproteinemias

Abstract

This review focuses on low density (LD) lipoprotein and very low density (VLD) lipoprotein in their roles as transporters of cholesterol and triglyceride and as factors contributing to premature arteriovascular disease. The clinical manifestations of the common, primary hyperlipoproteinemias, i.e., hyper-.beta.-lipopro-teinemia, combined hyperlipoproteinemia, hyper-.beta.-pre-.beta.-lipoproteinemia and sporadic hyperlipoproteinemia are discussed along with the variations in lipoprotein structure and metabolism that occur in these diseases. Based on an understanding of the physiologic control of lipoprotein metabolism, it is possible for the physician to alter the concentrations of LD lipoprotein and VLD lipoprotein by selecting a course of therapy appropriate to the specific disease. The effects of obesity, diet, insulin, ethanol, estrogens and the drugs clofibrate, nicotinic acid and cholestyramine are described.