Familial hypercholesterolemia

Alternative names:

hypercholesterolemic xanthomatosis; type II hyperlipoproteinemia

Prevention:

In families with a history of familial hypercholesterolemia, genetic counseling may be of benefit, especially if both parents are affected. Prevention of early heart attacks requires recognition of existing elevated LDL levels, and a low-cholesterol, low-saturated fat, high-unsaturated fat diet in high-risk people may help to control LDL levels.