Screening and treatment of common lipid disorders in adolescents

Among adolescents aged 12 to 19 years, the prevalence of abnormal lipid levels is as high as 20.3%. This statistic comprises genetic and secondary dyslipidemias. Familial hypercholesterolemia has a prevalence of 1 in 500 individuals in western populations, causes increased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol from birth, and leads to early cardiovascular events. The most common cause of secondary dyslipidemia is obesity, and the incidence continues to increase in the setting of the current obesity epidemic. In this article we will review basic lipid metabolism, describe common dyslipidemias affecting children and adolescents, and discuss the 2011 screening and treatment guidelines for childhood lipid disorders. Based on our own evidence-based practice in a multidisciplinary lipid clinic, we have included “clinical tips” as useful principles for the physician.