From the Guidelines
Hyperlipidemia characterized by high Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and high total cholesterol is Type IIa hyperlipidemia, also known as familial hypercholesterolemia. This condition is primarily a genetic disorder affecting the LDL receptor, resulting in decreased clearance of LDL from the bloodstream. Patients with Type IIa hyperlipidemia typically have normal triglyceride levels but elevated LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol.
Key Characteristics of Type IIa Hyperlipidemia
- Elevated LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol
- Normal triglyceride levels
- Genetic disorder affecting the LDL receptor
- Increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease
Treatment usually involves lifestyle modifications including a low-fat diet, regular exercise, and weight management.
Treatment Options
- Statins such as atorvastatin (10-80 mg daily) or rosuvastatin (5-40 mg daily) to inhibit cholesterol synthesis in the liver 1
- Ezetimibe (10 mg daily) to reduce intestinal cholesterol absorption for patients not reaching target LDL levels with statins alone
- PCSK9 inhibitors like evolocumab or alirocumab for severe cases
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial as untreated familial hypercholesterolemia significantly increases the risk of premature cardiovascular disease, with many patients developing coronary artery disease before age 55 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Hyperlipidemia Characterized by High LDL and High Total Cholesterol
- The type of hyperlipidemia characterized by high Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and high total cholesterol is known as Type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia 2.
- This condition is marked by elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease 3.
- Type IIa hyperlipoproteinemia is further divided into two subtypes: common type IIa and type IIa-X, with the latter having higher LDL cholesterol levels and a more cholesterol-rich LDL profile 2.
- The treatment for this condition typically involves lipid-lowering therapies, such as statins, ezetimibe, and bile acid sequestrants, which aim to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular events 4, 5, 6.
- The goal of treatment is to achieve optimal LDL cholesterol levels, with current guidelines recommending a "lower is better" approach to LDL cholesterol management 4.