ABSTRACT
Introduction The dyslipidemias are a highly heterogeneous class of metabolic disorders that can give rise to a wide range of diseases. A variety of congenital enzymopathies, mutations in cell surface receptors, and derangements in apoprotein function can predispose to abnormalities in circulating lipoprotein concentrations. Dyslipidemia is a pivotal risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and its various clinical sequelae, including myocardial infarction, sudden death, ischemic stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Elevations in LDL-cholesterol and triglyceride are associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), while high serum levels of HDL-cholesterol are associated with reduced risk for CVD.
