[Pathophysiologic aspects of hyperlipoproteinemias].

Elevated LDL-cholesterol levels and reduced HDL-cholesterol levels are independent risk factors for the development of ischaemic heart disease. Atherosclerosis is promoted also by some particles rich in triacylglycerols, in particular intermediate density lipoproteins (IDL), partly also very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). The risk of IHD is enhanced also by subfractions of LDLIII and protracted postprandial lipaemia, characterized by an increased concentration of remnants of chylomicrons. An independent risk factor is also an increased concentration of lipoprotein(a). When evaluating the cardiovascular risk of an actual patient it is always necessary to consider in addition to blood lipid levels also other non-lipid risk factors.