[Classification of hyperlipoproteinemias and interpretation of laboratory parameters].

Hyperlipidemias are grouped according to their lipid levels in hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemias, and mixed hyperlipidemias. Among these, hypercholesterolemia has the strongest correlation to the risk for coronary heart disease. Based on the results from epidemiologic studies and intervention trials several expert panels have defined cholesterol values with low and high cardiovascular risk and cholesterol target levels for treatment. In the presence of hyperlipidemia additional parameters like LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and Lp(a) may be determined depending on the individual patient's risk profile. For classification of familial lipid disorders, analysis of relatives and the determination of special parameters may be necessary. These include apolipoproteins (concentration, isoforms, mutants), enzyme activities (lipases, LCAT), LDL receptor activity, oratypical lipoproteins.