Management of Inherited Atherogenic Dyslipidemias in Children

Abstract

In order to prevent cardiovascular disease, the treatment of inherited dyslipidemias in childhood represents an emerging topic capturing scientists' consideration. A body of findings emerged in the last decade for diagnosis and therapy, and results were recently summarized to introduce new guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatrics and National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. It is well known and generally shared the need to detect affected children precociously, when the family history address to genetic dyslipidemia and when familial premature cardiovascular disease occurs. A spectrum of disorders involving lipoproteins could be recognized by specific biochemical and genetic markers. A defined diagnosis represents the starting point to establish a correct treatment and follow-up program. This review represents a literature synthesis of the main cornerstones and criticisms concerning the screening program and management of atherogenic inherited dyslipidemias in children and adolescents.