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Familial combined hyperlipidemia - Overview

Alternative Names

Multiple lipoprotein-type hyperlipidemia

Definition of Familial combined hyperlipidemia:

Familial combined hyperlipidemia is a disorder of high cholesterol and high blood triglycerides that is passed down through families.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Familial combined hyperlipidemia is the most common disorder of increased blood fats that causes early heart attacks. It is genetic, which means it is caused by a problem with your genes. However, researchers have not yet identified the specific genes responsible.

Diabetes, alcoholism, and hypothyroidism make the condition worse. Risk factors include a family history of high cholesterol and early coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery blockage

Reviewed last on: 1/23/2008
Glenn Gandelman, MD, MPH, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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