[Relation between cholesterol levels and neuropsychiatric disorders].

INTRODUCTION

A recent survey raised doubts about most of the associations between hypocholesterolemia and neuropsychiatric diseases. Nevertheless, there is scientific evidence (some very recent) that demonstrates a link between possible brain disorders and reduced levels of cholesterol.

AIM

To conduct a systematic study of the literature that addresses the relation between low cholesterol levels in serum and neuropsychiatric disorders.

DEVELOPMENT

Relevant papers were identified by means of a systematic search and selection of the literature on Medline (August 2008). The selected papers were reviewed using statistical analysis and critical-deductive reasoning.

CONCLUSIONS

It is shown that low cholesterol levels in serum are associated and related to different neuropsychiatric disorders. Lowered cholesterol levels seem likely to be linked to higher rates of early death, suicide, aggressive and violent behaviour, personality disorders, and possibly depression, dementia and penal confinement among young males. Further studies are needed to confirm the evidence currently available and to relate more accurate diagnoses with hypocholesterolemia.