[CME: Primary and Secondary Hypercholesterolemia]. / CME: Primäre und sekundäre Hypercholesterinämie.

ABSTRACT

CME Primary and Secondary Hypercholesterolemia Abstract. In patients with hypercholesterolemia and an LDL-cholesterol level >5 mmol/l, familial hypercholesterolemia (primary hypercholesterolemia) should be considered. This genetically determined illness should lead to medical therapy and screening for hypercholesterinemia in close relatives. Beside the superelevated LDL-cholesterol levels, additional clinically diagnostic findings and family anamnesis can support the diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia. The likelihood of familial hypercholesterolemia can be estimated using the Lipid Clinic Network Score. Additionally, a variety of exogenous factors may have an impact on lipoprotein metabolism and may lead to secondary hypercholesterolemia. Hypothyroidism, cholestasis, nephrotic syndrome or specific medications, among others, should be considered as potential factors leading to high cholesterol levels before familial hypercholesterolemia is suspected or lipid-lowering treatment is started.