Familial hypercholesterolaemia in children and adolescents: gaining decades of life by optimizing detection and treatment

FAMILY HISTORY IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PRESENCE OF DYSLIPIDEMIA IN PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between family history and the presence of dyslipidemia in children.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with 257 children aged 4 to 7 years old from Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Southeast Brazil. Nutritional status and lipid profile (total cholesterol, cholesterol fractions, and triglyceride) assessments and an active search for a family history of dyslipidemia in parents were carried out. Pearson's chi-square test was used to identify associations, and Student's t-test was used to compare means. A Poisson regression analysis was performed to assess the independent association between family history and the presence of dyslipidemia in children. A significance level of 5% was adopted.

RESULTS

Children of parents with dyslipidemia had higher serum concentrations of total cholesterol and triglycerides. In a regression analysis after adjustments, the presence of dyslipidemia in the father or in the mother (OR: 2.43; 95%CI 1.12-5.27), as well as the presence of dyslipidemia in both the father and the mother (OR: 5.62; 95%CI 2.27-13.92) were associated with hypertriglyceridemia in children. Children of parents with dyslipidemia had a higher prevalence of elevated low-density lipoproteins (LDL-c) (OR: 1.52; 95%CI 1.18-1.97).

CONCLUSIONS

An investigation of the family history of dyslipidemia should be made as part of the protocol to verify the presence of hypertriglyceridemia and dyslipidemia in children.

Improving the detection of familial hypercholesterolaemia

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a dominantly inherited disorder of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) catabolism, which if untreated causes lifelong elevated LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c), accelerated atherosclerosis and premature cardiovascular disease. Recent evidence suggests the prevalence of heterozygous FH is ∼1:220, making FH the most common autosomal dominant condition. Lowering LDL-c with statin and lifestyle therapy reduces the risk of cardiovascular events. Furthermore, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors significantly lower LDL-c in addition to statin therapy, and early outcome data suggest improved vascular outcomes with these agents in FH patients in addition to statins. However, the vast majority of people with FH still remain undiagnosed. The onus is on clinicians to identify kindreds with FH, as PCSK9 inhibitors, although expensive, are funded for patients with FH in Australia. Multiple strategies for detecting FH have been proposed. The detection of index cases can be achieved through applying electronic screening tools to general practice databases, universal screening of children during immunisation, and targeted screening of patients with premature cardiovascular disease. Advances in genomic technology have decreased costs of genetic testing, improved the understanding of the pathogenesis of FH and facilitated cascade screening. However, awareness of FH amongst clinicians and the general public still requires optimisation. This review outlines recent advances in FH detection, including emerging strategies and challenges for the next decade.

New approach for detection of LDL-hypercholesterolemia in the pediatric population: The Fr1dolin-Trial in Lower Saxony, Germany

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Lipid disorders are often detected very late, particularly in affected young children. We evaluated the feasibility of a screening for LDL-hypercholesterolemia (highLDL) among toddlers and preschoolers.

METHODS

Population-based screening has been offered to all children (2-6 years) living in the State of Lower Saxony, Germany, with capillary blood sampling for detection of elevated LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C ≥ 135 mg/dL). Positive results were confirmed by a second measurement. Follow-up in specialized centers, including disease specific counselling and extended diagnostics, as well as evaluation of psychological distress of the parents, is carried out longitudinally.

RESULTS

Up to March 2018, 5656 children have participated in the screening program. 5069/5656 children have completed the screening for highLDL (52.0% boys; median age: 4.0 years [Interquartile range, IQR 3.0-5.1]; mother age: 35 years [IQR 31-38]; father's age: 37 years; [IQR 33-42]). HighLDL was identified in 112 children (2.2%; 40.2% boys; LDL-C 157.6 ± 29.5 mg/dL, mean ± SD). In the total cohort, parents stated in 40.9% of the cases a positive family history for hyperlipidemia and in 29.9% a premature cardiovascular event. Children with highLDL had more often both risk factors in their family history; however, in 37% of them none of these factors were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The first results of the screening program showed its feasibility and revealed high prevalence of highLDL in the general population. Furthermore, a large proportion of families of affected children were not aware about their lipid disorders.

[Diagnosis and Treatment of Familial Hypercholesterolemia]

Diagnosis and Treatment of Familial Hypercholesterolemia Abstract. Familial hypercholesterolemia secondary to heterozygous mutations in the LDL receptor, Apolipoprotein B or PCSK9 gene is characterized by 2- to 3-fold elevated LDL cholesterol levels, premature atherosclerosis and extravascular cholesterol deposits (tendon xanthomata, corneal arcus). The same phenotype may occur if a person carries several LDL cholesterol rising polymorphisms (polygenic FH). Primary prevention with statins has been shown to dramatically reduce the cardiovascular burden in patients with the disease. However, it is estimated that less than 10 % of affected subjects in Switzerland have received the diagnosis, and undertreatment is frequent. Thus, clinical cardiovascular events are still the first manifestation of the disease in many cases. A correct diagnosis in index patients and cascade screening of families are mandatory to identify and treat patients before they suffer the sequelae of untreated severe hypercholesterolemia. In patients with clinical cardiovascular disease combination lipid lowering treatment with potent statins, ezetimibe and the newly available PCSK9 inhibitors will successfully lower LDL cholesterol to normal or even target levels.

Inclisiran for the treatment of cardiovascular disease: the ORION clinical development program

Inclisiran is a novel drug that inhibits PCSK9 synthesis specifically in the liver, harnessing the natural mechanism of RNAi. Phase I and II data show that inclisiran lowers low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels on average by >50% with a duration of effect that enables twice-yearly dosing. Phases I, II and emerging Phase III data support inclisiran's safety, tolerability and risk-benefit profile. The ongoing ORION program includes Phase III trials that will provide robust evidence of inclisiran's safety and efficacy in individuals at high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), including established ASCVD and familial hypercholesterolemia. In addition, the ORION-4 trial will assess the impact of inclisiran on cardiovascular outcomes in approximately 15,000 ASCVD subjects.

Statin Treatments And Dosages In Children With Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Meta-Analysis

Background

Children with familial hypercholesterolemia may develop early endothelial damage leading to a high risk for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Statins have been shown to be effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels and cardiovascular events in adults. The effect of statin treatment in the pediatric population is not clearly demonstrated.

Objective

To systematically review the literature to evaluate the effects of different statins and dosages in total cholesterol levels in children and adolescents with familial hypercholesterolemia. We also aimed to evaluate statin safety in this group.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Bireme, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, SciELO and LILACS databases, were searched for articles published from inception until February 2016. Two independent reviewers performed the quality assessment of the included studies. We performed a meta-analysis with random effects and inverse variance, and subgroup analyses were performed.

Results

Ten trials involving a total of 1543 patients met the inclusion criteria. Our study showed reductions in cholesterol levels according to the intensity of statin doses (high, intermediate and low): (-104.61 mg/dl, -67.60 mg/dl, -56.96 mg/dl) and in the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level: [-105.03 mg/dl (95% CI -115.76, -94.30), I2 19.2%], [-67.85 mg/dl (95% CI -83.36, -52.35), I2 99.8%], [-58.97 mg/dl (95% CI -67.83, -50.11), I2 93.8%. The duration of statin therapy in the studies ranged from 8 to 104 weeks, precluding conclusions about long-term effects.

Conclusion

Statin treatment is efficient in lowering lipids in children with FH. There is need of large, long-term and randomized controlled trials to establish the long-term safety of statins.

Evaluation of the performance of Dutch Lipid Clinic Network score in an Italian FH population: The LIPIGEN study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder characterized by high levels of blood cholesterol from birth and premature coronary heart disease. Thus, the identification of FH patients is crucial to prevent or delay the onset of cardiovascular events, and the availability of a tool helping with the diagnosis in the setting of general medicine is essential to improve FH patient identification.

METHODS

This study evaluated the performance of the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) score in FH patients enrolled in the LIPIGEN study, an Italian integrated network aimed at improving the identification of patients with genetic dyslipidaemias, including FH.

RESULTS

The DLCN score was applied on a sample of 1377 adults (mean age 42.9 ± 14.2 years) with genetic diagnosis of FH, resulting in 28.5% of the sample classified as probable FH and 37.9% as classified definite FH. Among these subjects, 43.4% had at least one missing data out of 8, and about 10.0% had 4 missing data or more. When analyzed based on the type of missing data, a higher percentage of subjects with at least 1 missing data in the clinical history or physical examination was classified as possible FH (DLCN score 3-5). We also found that using real or estimated pre-treatment LDL-C levels may significantly modify the DLCN score.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the DLCN score is a useful tool for physicians in the diagnosis of FH, it may be limited by the complexity to retrieve all the essential information, suggesting a crucial role of the clinical judgement in the identification of FH subjects.

Characteristics and management of 1093 patients with clinical diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia in Greece: Data from the Hellenic Familial Hypercholesterolemia Registry (HELLAS-FH)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Although familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is one of the most common genetic disorders, it remains largely underdiagnosed and undertreated. The Hellenic Atherosclerosis Society has established the Hellenic Familial Hypercholesterolemia (HELLAS-FH) Registry, part of the Familial Hypercholesterolemia Studies Collaboration (FHSC), to evaluate the characteristics and management of patients with FH in Greece.

METHODS

Patients with diagnosed FH were recruited by a network of sites throughout Greece. The prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, as well as management of FH, was recorded.

RESULTS

This interim analysis included 1093 patients (556 male; 950 adults). The median age of FH diagnosis was 42.2 years (interquartile range 27.2-53.0). A family history of CVD was present in 47.8%, while 21.1% of patients had a personal history of CVD. At diagnosis, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was 241 ± 76 mg/dL in adults and 229 ± 57 mg/dL in children. Overall, 63.1% of the patients were receiving hypolipidemic drug treatment, mainly statins, at inclusion in the registry. Mean LDL-C of patients receiving drug treatment was 154 ± 76 mg/dL in adults and 136 ± 47 mg/dL in children. The majority of treated patients (87.9%) did not achieve LDL-C targets.

CONCLUSIONS

FH in Greece is characterized by a significant delay in diagnosis and a high prevalence of both family and personal history of established CVD. The vast majority of FH patients do not achieve LDL-C targets. Improved awareness and management of FH are definitely needed.

Detecting familial hypercholesterolemia earlier in life by actively searching for affected children:The DECOPIN project

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is underdiagnosed in children. We assessed a combination of two screening methods. The first method was to detect hypercholesteraemic children and then study the parents (Ch-P pathway), and the second one was to study the offspring of FH-affected parents (P-Ch pathway).

METHODS

In the Ch-P path, primary care paediatricians were asked to include lipid profiling or, at least, total cholesterol (TC) and then lipid profiling if TC was higher than 5.2 mmol/L in any clinically indicated blood test. Children with LDL-C ≥ 3.5 mmol/L, plus either a family history of early cardiovascular disease or one parent with severe hypercholesterolemia, were referred to the lipid unit where the parents, rather than their children, were studied. In parents with definite, clinical FH, a genetic study was performed. Focused genetic testing was performed on all offspring of genetically positive parents. The P-Ch path consisted of the active study of children from definite FH adults.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine paediatricians covering a total population of 63,616 children agreed to participate in the project. Of the 216 children (122 Ch-P and 94 P-Ch) who were ultimately referred to the lipid unit, 87 children with FH (84% genetically positive) were identified. Additionally, 41 parents (from 40 families) were newly diagnosed with FH (63% genetically positive). Forty-nine different mutations were detected: 46 in the LDLR, 2 in the PCSK9 and 1 in APOB gene.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of active strategies to detect FH in children, in close collaboration with primary care paediatricians, provides a high-performance method for early FH detection.

Prognostic impact of familial hypercholesterolemia on long-term outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are at increased risk for premature and subsequent cardiovascular disease. Data on long-term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with FH after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the era of high-intensity statins are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the prognostic impact of clinically diagnosed FH on long-term MACE, a composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke in patients admitted for stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) or acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) undergoing PCI.

METHODS

FH was diagnosed according to the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network diagnosis criteria: "Unlikely FH" diagnosis was defined as 0 to 2 points, "possible FH" as 3 to 5 points, and "probable/definite FH" diagnosis as 6 or higher.

RESULTS

From a total of 1550 eligible patients (47.4% were admitted for SCAD and 52.6% for ACS), 77 (5.0%) were classified as probable/definite FH, 332 (21.4%) as possible FH, and 1141 (73.6%) as unlikely FH. Mean follow-up was 6.0 ± 2.4 years. After adjustment for possible confounders, patients classified with probable or definite FH (hazard ratio [HR] 1.922 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.220-2.999]; P = .004), but not patients with possible FH (HR 1.105 [95% CI 0.843-1.447]; P = .470) faced a significant, approximately 2-fold increased risk of MACE compared with patients with unlikely FH.

CONCLUSION

After adjustment for confounders, patients with probable or definite FH faced an approximate 2-fold increased risk for long-term MACE compared with patients without FH despite the widespread use of high-intensity statins. The new option of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 gene inhibitors in addition to other current optimal lipid-lowering strategies might help to further improve clinical outcome in patients with probable/definite FH.

Serum non-cholesterol sterols and cholesterol metabolism in childhood and adolescence

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The profile of cholesterol metabolism, i.e., high absorption vs. high synthesis, may have a role in the development of atherosclerosis, the early lesions of which can be present already in childhood. Since there is no information on cholesterol metabolism in children from birth to adolescence, we evaluated cholesterol metabolism in 0-15 year-old children and adolescents without dyslipidemia.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 96 children (39 girls, 57 boys) divided into age groups <1 (n = 14), 1-5 (n = 37), 6-10 (n = 24), and 11-15 (n = 21) years. Cholesterol metabolism was assessed by analysing serum non-cholesterol sterols, biomarkers of cholesterol synthesis and absorption, with gas-liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

Serum non-cholesterol sterol ratios to cholesterol did not differ between gender. Cholesterol precursors squalene, cholestenol, and desmosterol were higher in the <1 year than in the older age groups, whereas lathosterol was highest in the 11-15 year old. Plant sterols were low in the age group <1 year, after which they did not differ between the groups. Cholestanol was not age-dependent. From the age of 1 year, cholesterol homeostasis was intact. Cholesterol absorption prevailed cholesterol synthesis from 1 to 10 years of age (e.g., lathosterol/cholestanol ratio 0.35 ± 0.03 and 0.45 ± 0.05 in 1-5 and 6-10 vs. 0.66 ± 0.08 in 11-15 year-old (mean ± SE, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum non-cholesterol sterols had different individual profiles by age in childhood and adolescence. From 1 to 10 years of age, cholesterol absorption prevailed cholesterol synthesis. This novel finding emphasizes the importance of dietary aspects related to cardiovascular risk even from early childhood.

Coronary artery disease, genetic risk and the metabolome in young individuals

Background: Genome-wide association studies have identified genetic variants associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) in adults - the leading cause of death worldwide. It often occurs later in life, but variants may impact CAD-relevant phenotypes early and throughout the life-course. Cohorts with longitudinal and genetic data on thousands of individuals are letting us explore the antecedents of this adult disease. Methods: 149 metabolites, with a focus on the lipidome, measured using nuclear magnetic resonance ( 1H-NMR) spectroscopy, and genotype data were available from 5,905 individuals at ages 7, 15, and 17 years from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) cohort. Linear regression was used to assess the association between the metabolites and an adult-derived genetic risk score (GRS) of CAD comprising 146 variants. Individual variant-metabolite associations were also examined. Results: The CAD-GRS associated with 118 of 149 metabolites (false discovery rate [FDR] < 0.05), the strongest associations being with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and atherogenic non-LDL subgroups. Nine of 146 variants in the GRS associated with one or more metabolites (FDR < 0.05). Seven of these are within lipid loci: rs11591147 PCSK9, rs12149545 HERPUD1-CETP, rs17091891 LPL, rs515135 APOB, rs602633 CELSR2-PSRC1, rs651821 APOA5, rs7412 APOE-APOC1. All associated with metabolites in the LDL or atherogenic non-LDL subgroups or both including aggregate cholesterol measures. The other two variants identified were rs112635299 SERPINA1 and rs2519093 ABO. Conclusions: Genetic variants that influence CAD risk in adults are associated with large perturbations in metabolite levels in individuals as young as seven. The variants identified are mostly within lipid-related loci and the metabolites they associated with are primarily linked to lipoproteins. This knowledge could allow for preventative measures, such as increased monitoring of at-risk individuals and perhaps treatment earlier in life, to be taken years before any symptoms of the disease arise.

Autosomal dominant hypercholesterolemia in Catalonia: Correspondence between clinical-biochemical and genetic diagnostics in 967 patients studied in a multicenter clinical setting

BACKGROUND

Autosomal dominant hypercholesterolemia (ADH) is associated with mutations in the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LDLR), apolipoprotein B (APOB), and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) genes, and it is estimated to be greatly underdiagnosed. The most cost-effective strategy for increasing ADH diagnosis is a cascade screening from mutation-positive probands.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the results from 2008 to 2016 of ADH genetic analysis performed in our clinical laboratory, serving most lipid units of Catalonia, a Spanish region with approximately 7.5 million inhabitants.

METHODS

After the application of the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) clinical diagnostic score for ADH, this information and blood or saliva from 23 different lipid clinic units were investigated in our laboratory. DNA was screened for mutations in LDLR, APOB, and PCSK9, using the DNA-array LIPOchip, the next-generation sequencing SEQPRO LIPO RS platform, and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA). The Simon Broome Register Group (SBRG) criteria was calculated and analyzed for comparative purposes.

RESULTS

A total of 967 unrelated samples were analyzed. From this, 158 pathogenic variants were detected in 356 patients. The main components of the DLCN criteria associated with the presence of mutation were plasma LDL cholesterol (LDLc), age, and the presence of tendinous xanthomata. The contribution of family history to the diagnosis was lower than in other studies. DLCN and SBRG were similarly useful for predicting the presence of mutation.

CONCLUSION

In a real clinical practice, multicenter setting in Catalonia, the percentage of positive genetic diagnosis in patients potentially affected by ADH was 38.6%. The DLCN showed a relatively low capacity to predict mutation detection but a higher one for ruling out mutation.

Secondary Dyslipidemia In Obese Children - Is There Evidence For Pharmacological Treatment?

BACKGROUND

Long-term safety, effectiveness and criteria for treatment with statins in children are still unclear in clinical practice. There is very limited evidence for the use of medication to treat children with dyslipidemia secondary to obesity who do not respond well to lifestyle modification.

OBJECTIVE

Systematic review of randomized clinical trials of statin use to treat children and adolescents with dyslipidemia secondary to obesity.

METHODS

We performed a search in PubMed, EMBASE, Bireme, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, SciELO, and LILACS for data to evaluate the effect of statins on: improvement of surrogate markers of coronary artery disease in clinical outcomes of adulthood; increased serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and apolipropotein B (APOB); and decreased serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) from inception to February 2016. Participants were children and adolescents.

RESULTS

Of the 16793 potentially relevant citations recovered from the electronic databases, no randomized clinical trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria for children with dyslipidemia secondary to obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no specific evidence to consider statins in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia secondary to obesity in children. The usual practice of extrapolating findings from studies in genetic dyslipidemia ignores the differences in long-term cardiovascular risks and the long-term drug treatment risks, when compared to recommendation of lifestyle changes. Randomized clinical trials are needed to understand drug treatment in dyslipidemia secondary to obesity.

Which Lipids Should Be Analyzed for Diagnostic Workup and Follow-up of Patients with Hyperlipidemias?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize and discuss the clinical use of lipid and apolipoprotein tests in the settings of diagnosis and therapeutic follow-up of hyperlipidemia.

RECENT FINDINGS

The joint consensus panel of the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) and the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) recently produced recommendations on the measurement of atherogenic lipoproteins, taking into account the strengths and weaknesses of analytical and clinical performances of the tests. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and calculated non-HDL cholesterol (= LDL + remnant cholesterol) constitute the primary lipid panel for hyperlipidemia diagnosis and cardiovascular risk estimation. LDL cholesterol is the primary target of lipid-lowering therapies. Non-HDL cholesterol or apolipoprotein B should be used as secondary therapeutic target in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertriglyceridemia, 2-10 mmol/l (175-880 mg/dl). Lipoprotein (a) is included in LDL cholesterol and should be measured at least once in all patients at cardiovascular risk, including to explain poor response to statin treatment.

Lipid Screening, Action, and Follow-up in Children and Adolescents

Purpose of Review

To create awareness for the devastating influence of high cholesterol in familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) on vessel walls. Persons with high LDL-C and a known mutation associated with FH have a 22-fold increase in CVD compared with those with a normal LDL-C and no genetic mutation. If the awareness of the need to diagnose and treat this genetic disorder at an early stage increases, great atherosclerotic impact later in life could be avoided. Every minute a child with heterozygous FH is born somewhere in the world and every day a child with homozygous FH is born.

Recent Findings

Recent findings include effective therapy on statins from the age of 6 years, with already normalization of the intima-media thickness within 2 years. Newer types of drugs, with the same safety profile and perhaps even more effective, will become available in childhood in the near future. Open for discussion will be whom to treat and with what type of treatment. Next generation sequencing will perhaps easily select those in need of treatment and those at risk of adverse effects.

Summary

At the end of this review, statements and recommendations for children and adolescents with heterozygous FH are listed.

Clinical Genetic Testing for Familial Hypercholesterolemia: JACC Scientific Expert Panel

Although awareness of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is increasing, this common, potentially fatal, treatable condition remains underdiagnosed. Despite FH being a genetic disorder, genetic testing is rarely used. The Familial Hypercholesterolemia Foundation convened an international expert panel to assess the utility of FH genetic testing. The rationale includes the following: 1) facilitation of definitive diagnosis; 2) pathogenic variants indicate higher cardiovascular risk, which indicates the potential need for more aggressive lipid lowering; 3) increase in initiation of and adherence to therapy; and 4) cascade testing of at-risk relatives. The Expert Consensus Panel recommends that FH genetic testing become the standard of care for patients with definite or probable FH, as well as for their at-risk relatives. Testing should include the genes encoding the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), apolipoprotein B (APOB), and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9); other genes may also need to be considered for analysis based on patient phenotype. Expected outcomes include greater diagnoses, more effective cascade testing, initiation of therapies at earlier ages, and more accurate risk stratification.

Oxidative burden in familial hypercholesterolemia

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder characterized by high serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c). FH is characterized by accelerated development of atherosclerosis and represents the most frequent hereditary cause of premature coronary heart disease. Mutations of the LDL receptor gene are the genetic signature of FH, resulting in abnormal levels of circulating LDLs. Moreover, FH promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which is another key mechanism involved in atherosclerosis development and progression. The aim of this narrative review is to update the current knowledge on the pathophysiological mechanisms linking FH to ROS generation and their detrimental impact on atherosclerotic pathophysiology. With this purpose, we reviewed experimental and clinical data on the association between FH and OS and the functional role of OS as a promoter of inflammation and atherosclerosis. In this regard, oxidant species such as oxidized LDL, malondialdehyde, ROS, and isoprostanes emerged as leading mediators of the oxidative injury in FH. In conclusion, targeting oxidative stress may be a promising therapeutic strategy to reduce atherogenesis in patients with FH.

Lipids in Children and Links to Adult Vascular Disease

Atherosclerosis often begins in childhood or adolescence. Post-mortem studies in children have shown the presence of coronary atheroma, and there are hereditary conditions associated with hyperlipidaemia in childhood which lead to premature cardiovascular disease. Detection of hyperlipidaemia early in life can be crucial in the prevention of premature death from atherosclerosis. The circulating lipoproteins are in a constant state of flux, with passage of apolipoproteins and lipids between the various particles. Genetic variants of apolipoproteins can cause both hypercholesterolaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia. Elevated concentrations of lipoprotein(a) predispose to coronary artery disease. Another important molecule in lipid metabolism, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), plays a crucial role in the removal of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors. Reference intervals for the various lipid subfractions are now available for children, and there are guidelines regarding when to take action regarding paediatric hyperlipidaemia. The most important genetic condition in children which may lead to premature death from coronary heart disease is familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). FH is best diagnosed and treated early in life. Most cases are due to defects in the LDL receptor. Pharmacotherapy for FH usually involves the statin group of drugs, although newer medications are now available, especially for the treatment of homozygous FH. Statin therapy has been demonstrated to be successful in preventing cardiac events in FH. Secondary dyslipidaemia in childhood can be associated with numerous diseases including diabetes, lifestyle disorders such as obesity, and drugs. Treatment of the underlying condition usually resolves the hyperlipidaemia.

Complex disease management of pregnant young patient with familial hypercholesterolaemia complicated by coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular disease

Inherited disorders of lipid metabolism may cause a heavy burden of cardiovascular disease early in life. Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) with abnormalities of LDL metabolism results in marked LDL elevations and accelerated, multivessel atherosclerosis presenting in teenage or young adulthood. We describe the case of a 33-year-old woman who presented with exertional angina in the setting of pregnancy who was found post-partum to have severe triple-vessel disease including left main disease on coronary angiography (Figs. 1 and 2). She was also noted to have a typical supravalvular "hourglass" [1] abnormality of the aortic root (Fig. 3), and heavy calcification of the proximal aorta precluding conventional aortic cross clamping and bypass surgery. After discussion with the multidisciplinary team, her disease was felt to be amenable to a beating-heart coronary bypass technique with an anaortic approach to minimise the possibility of cerebral embolism. Significant extracranial cerebrovascular disease, a major risk for cardiopulmonary bypass, reinforced the beating-heart technique. Her ongoing management has consisted of medical therapy with cessation of breast feeding, statins, ezetimibe, and introduction of PCSK9-inhibitor therapy. This case illustrates a number of the difficulties associated with management of widespread atherosclerotic disease associated with FH, in which an excellent outcome was achieved with the assistance of a multi-disciplinary team.

Low-density lipoproteins cause atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. 1. Evidence from genetic, epidemiologic, and clinical studies. A consensus statement from the European Atherosclerosis Society Consensus Panel

Aims

To appraise the clinical and genetic evidence that low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) cause atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Methods and results

We assessed whether the association between LDL and ASCVD fulfils the criteria for causality by evaluating the totality of evidence from genetic studies, prospective epidemiologic cohort studies, Mendelian randomization studies, and randomized trials of LDL-lowering therapies. In clinical studies, plasma LDL burden is usually estimated by determination of plasma LDL cholesterol level (LDL-C). Rare genetic mutations that cause reduced LDL receptor function lead to markedly higher LDL-C and a dose-dependent increase in the risk of ASCVD, whereas rare variants leading to lower LDL-C are associated with a correspondingly lower risk of ASCVD. Separate meta-analyses of over 200 prospective cohort studies, Mendelian randomization studies, and randomized trials including more than 2 million participants with over 20 million person-years of follow-up and over 150 000 cardiovascular events demonstrate a remarkably consistent dose-dependent log-linear association between the absolute magnitude of exposure of the vasculature to LDL-C and the risk of ASCVD; and this effect appears to increase with increasing duration of exposure to LDL-C. Both the naturally randomized genetic studies and the randomized intervention trials consistently demonstrate that any mechanism of lowering plasma LDL particle concentration should reduce the risk of ASCVD events proportional to the absolute reduction in LDL-C and the cumulative duration of exposure to lower LDL-C, provided that the achieved reduction in LDL-C is concordant with the reduction in LDL particle number and that there are no competing deleterious off-target effects.

Conclusion

Consistent evidence from numerous and multiple different types of clinical and genetic studies unequivocally establishes that LDL causes ASCVD.

Lipids and Women's Health: Recent Updates and Implications for Practice

The obstetrician/gynecologist frequently serves as the primary care physician for women. Specialty-specific guidelines vary in screening recommendations for lipid disorders; women's health practitioners often follow recommendations to screen at age 45 in the absence of other risk factors. However, 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association cholesterol guidelines recommend screening at age 21 to capture those at risk of cardiovascular disease and allow for early intervention with lifestyle and, in the most severe cases, evidence-based statins. We discuss the care of women who primarily benefit from screening: those with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), those with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) or polycystic ovary syndrome, and those with hypertriglyceridemia. Those with FH have elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol from birth and a propensity for premature coronary heart disease. Early recognition of FH can allow risk-reducing interventions, as well as identification of additional affected relatives. Early detection of metabolic variables, such as in the MetS and hypertriglyceridemia, can lead to an enhanced focus on physical activity and heart-healthy diet. Finally, we discuss a practical approach to lipid management and review concerns regarding drug safety. Our objective is to provide a current overview of cardiovascular risk factor optimization that women's health practitioners can use in identifying and/or treating patients at risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Familial Hypercholesterolemia: New Horizons for Diagnosis and Effective Management

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a common genetic cause of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD). The reported prevalence rates for both heterozygous FH (HeFH) and homozygous FH (HoFH) vary significantly, and this can be attributed, at least in part, to the variable diagnostic criteria used across different populations. Due to lack of consistent data, new global registries and unified guidelines are being formed, which are expected to advance current knowledge and improve the care of FH patients. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology, epidemiology, manifestations, and pharmacological treatment of FH, whilst summarizing the up-to-date relevant recommendations and guidelines. Ongoing research in FH seems promising and novel therapies are expected to be introduced in clinical practice in order to compliment or even substitute current treatment options, aiming for better lipid-lowering effects, fewer side effects, and improved clinical outcomes.

Monascus purpureus for statin and ezetimibe intolerant heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia patients: A clinical study

BACKGROUND

Hypercholesterolaemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and requires effective therapy in affected patients. Statins, the mainstay of lipid-lowering therapy, can cause side effects, including myalgia, in some patients. Ezetimibe, is frequently used as an add-on therapy for statins, and is also used as a monotherapy in statin-intolerant patients, however elevations in liver transaminases can occur. We examined the lipid-lowering efficacy of the natural fungal product Monascus purpureus (MP), which contains the natural statin monacolin K.

METHODS

Fifty-five patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia who had discontinued statins due to muscle symptoms. Patients were placed on a lipid-lowering diet cholesterol-lowering diet (1500-1800 kcal daily, 30% lipids, 19% proteins and 52% carbohydrates). MP was added to the diet at a dose of 300 mg (providing monacolin K 10 mg). Patients were followed for 12 months. Lipid profiles and adverse event data were collected in the normal course of patient care.

RESULTS

After 6 months of treatment with MP and diet therapy, statistically significant changes in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were evident (-17% for males, -16% for females; p < 0.005) Levels fell to -24% and -27% respectively at 12 months. No patients experienced elevated serum aminotransferases or C-reactive protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

MP is a viable option for lipid-lowering therapy in statin-intolerant patients with hypercholesterolaemia, with good efficacy and safety profiles.

Parent-child genetic testing for familial hypercholesterolaemia in an Australian context

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of parent-child testing for familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) employing genetic testing and the likely additional cost of treating each child.

METHODS

Parent-child testing for gene variants causative of FH was carried out according to Australian guidelines. The number of new cases detected, the low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol that best predicted a mutation and the proportional reduction in LDL-cholesterol following statin treatment was evaluated. Treatment costs were calculated as the cost per mmol/L reduction in LDL-cholesterol.

RESULTS

A total of 126 adult patients, known to have a pathogenic mutation causative of FH, and their children were studied. From 244 children identified, 148 (60.7%) were genetically screened; 84 children were identified as mutative positive (M+) and 64 as mutative negative. Six of the M+ children were already on statin treatment; 40 were subsequently treated with low-dose statins, with LDL-cholesterol falling significantly by 38% (P < 0.001). The estimated cost per mmol/L reduction of LDL-cholesterol of a child receiving statins from ages 10 to 18 years is AU$1361, which can potentially be cost-effective. An LDL-cholesterol threshold of 3.5 mmol/L had a sensitivity of 92.8% and specificity of 96.6% for the detection of a mutation.

CONCLUSION

Genetic testing of children of affected parents with FH is an effective means of detecting new cases of FH. Cascade testing can enable early statin therapy with significant reductions in LDL-cholesterol concentration.

Lipid and lipoprotein parameters for detection of familial hypercholesterolemia in childhood. The DECOPIN Project

BACKGROUND

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) in children is under-detected and is difficult to diagnose in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical, biochemical and vascular imaging variables in order to detect children and adolescents with FH.

METHODS

A total of 222 children aged 4-18 years old were recruited to participate in a project for the early detection of FH (The DECOPIN Project). They were distributed into 3groups: FH, if genetic study or clinical criteria were positive (n=91); Polygenic hypercholesterolaemia (PH) if LDL-Cholesterol >135mg/dL without FH criteria (n=23), and Control group (CG) if LDL-C <135mg/dL (n=108). Data were collected from family history, anthropometric data, and clinical variables. The usual biochemical parameters, including a complete lipid profile were analysed. The carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and thickness of Achilles tendons were determined using ultrasound in all participants.

RESULTS

A total of 91 children had a diagnosis of FH, 23 with PH, and 108 with CG. Children with FH had higher concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL-C, ApoB/ApoA1 ratio, and cholesterol-year score, than the other groups. HDL-C was lower in the FH group than in the CG. Thickness of the Achilles tendon and cIMT did not show any differences between groups, although a greater cIMT trend was observed in the FH group. ApoB/ApoA1 ratio >0.82 was the parameter with the highest sensitivity and specificity to predict the presence of mutation in children with FH.

CONCLUSIONS

Although LDL-C is the main biochemical parameter used to define FH, the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (>0.82) may be a useful tool to identify children with FH and a positive mutation.

Multimodal lipid-lowering treatment in pediatric patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia-target attainment requires further increase of intensity

BACKGROUND

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) causes premature cardiovascular disease (CVD). Lipoprotein apheresis (LA) is recommended as first-line lipid-lowering treatment (LLT) for homozygous (ho) FH.

METHODS

Efficacy of multimodal LLT including lifestyle counseling, drug treatment, and LA was analyzed in 17 pediatric hoFH or compound heterozygous (c-het) FH patients, who commenced chronic LA in Germany before the age of 18.

RESULTS

At time of diagnosis, mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration was 19.6 mmol/l (756 mg/dl). Multimodal LLT resulted in 73% reduction of mean LDL-C concentration including a 62% contribution of LA. Only three children (18%) achieved mean LDL-C concentrations below the recommended pediatric target of 3.5 mmol/l (135 mg/dl). In 13 patients (76%) during chronic LA, neither cardiovascular events occurred nor was CVD progression detected clinically or by routine imaging techniques. In four patients (24%), cardiovascular events documented progression of CVD despite weekly LA, including one death due to coronary and cerebrovascular CVD which was not stabilized after commencing LA. Based on the mutational status, only 6 out of the 17 children were candidates for proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition. Two already responded with further LDL-C decrease by 40%.

CONCLUSIONS

Next to drug therapy, regular LA is an essential component of LLT for approaching LDL-C targets in children with hoFH or c-hetFH, which was successful only in a minority of children. Progression of CVD morbidity and resulting mortality remain unresolved issues. Early and intensified multimodal LLT guided by risk factors beyond LDL-C concentration is needed to improve outcome.

Parents' views of genetic testing and treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia in children: a qualitative study

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a serious inherited disorder, which greatly increases individuals’ risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adult life. However, medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments can fully restore life expectancy. Whilst European guidance advises that where there is a known family mutation genetic testing is undertaken in early childhood, the majority of the at-risk population remain untested and undiagnosed. To date, only a small number of studies have explored parents’ and children’s experiences of testing and treatment for FH, and little is known about interactions between health professionals, parents, and children in clinic settings. In this study, in-depth interviews were undertaken with parents who had attended a genetics and/or lipid clinic for FH with their children (n = 17). A thematic analysis revealed four main themes: undertaking early prevention, postponing treatment, parental concerns, and the importance of the wider family context. The majority of parents supported genetic testing for FH in childhood. However, although some were very supportive of following early treatment recommendations, others expressed reluctance. Importantly, some parents were concerned that inappropriate information had been shared with their children and wished that more time had been given to discuss how, when, and what to tell in advance. Future research is needed to explore the long-term outcomes for children who undertake genetic testing and early treatment for FH and to trial interventions to improve the engagement, follow-up, and support of children who are at risk, or diagnosed, with this disorder.

The design and rationale of SAVE BC: The Study to Avoid CardioVascular Events in British Columbia

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is highly heritable, particularly when it occurs at a young age. The screening of individuals with premature ASCVD, although often recommended, is not routinely performed. Strategies to address this gap in care are essential. We designed the Study to Avoid CardioVascular Events in British Columbia (SAVE BC) as a prospective, observational study of individuals with a new diagnosis of very premature ASCVD (defined as age ≤ 50 years in males and age ≤ 55 years in females) and their first-degree relatives (FDRs) and spouses. FDRs and spouses will undergo screening for cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and subclinical ASCVD using a structured screening algorithm. All subjects will be followed longitudinally for ≥10 years. The overall goal of SAVE BC is to evaluate the yield of a structured screening program for identifying individuals at risk of premature ASCVD. The primary objectives of SAVE BC are to identify and follow index cases with very premature ASCVD and their FDRs and to determine the diagnostic yield of a structured screening program for these individuals. We will collect data on CV risk factors, medication use, CV events, and healthcare costs in these individuals. SAVE BC will provide insight regarding approaches to identify individuals at risk for premature ASCVD with implications for prevention and treatment in this population.

Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Familial Hypercholesterolemia 2017

Statement1. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal hereditary disease with the 3 major clinical features of hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, premature coronary artery disease and tendon and skin xanthomas. As there is a considerably high risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), in addition to early diagnosis and intensive treatment, family screening (cascade screening) is required (Recommendation level A) 2. For a diagnosis of FH, at least 2 of the following criteria should be satisfied:① LDL-C ≥180 mg/dL, ② Tendon/skin xanthomas, ③ History of FH or premature CAD within 2nd degree blood relatives (Recommendation level A) 3. Intensive lipid-lowering therapy is necessary for the treatment of FH. First-line drug should be statins. (Recommendation level A, Evidence level 3) 4. Screening for CAD as well as asymptomatic atherosclerosis should be conducted periodically in FH patients. (Recommendation level A) 5. For homozygous FH, consider LDL apheresis and treatment with PCSK9 inhibitors or MTP inhibitors. (Recommendation level A) 6. For severe forms of heterozygous FH who have resistant to drug therapy, consider PCSK9 inhibitors and LDL apheresis. (Recommendation level A) 7. Refer FH homozygotes as well as heterozygotes who are resistant to drug therapy, who are children or are pregnant or have the desire to bear children to a specialist. (Recommendation level A).

Case report-Rapid regression of xanthomas under lipoprotein apheresis in a boy with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

Xanthomas are visibly deforming cholesterol deposits that develop after long-term exposure to high serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. We present the case of a 10-year-old boy suffering from homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia with generalized atherosclerosis and large xanthomas. The case impressively demonstrates the potential of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering to rapidly regress pathologic cutaneous manifestations of hypercholesterolemia.

Guidance for Pediatric Familial Hypercholesterolemia 2017

This paper describes consensus statement by Joint Working Group by Japan Pediatric Society and Japan Atherosclerosis Society for Making Guidance of Pediatric Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) in order to improve prognosis of FH.FH is a common genetic disease caused by mutations in genes related to low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor pathway. Because patients with FH have high LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) levels from the birth, atherosclerosis begins and develops during childhood which determines the prognosis. Therefore, in order to reduce their lifetime risk for cardiovascular disease, patients with FH need to be diagnosed as early as possible and appropriate treatment should be started.Diagnosis of pediatric heterozygous FH patients is made by LDL-C ≥140 mg/dL, and family history of FH or premature CAD. When the diagnosis is made, they need to improve their lifestyle including diet and exercise which sometimes are not enough to reduce LDL-C levels. For pediatric FH aged ≥10 years, pharmacotherapy needs to be considered if the LDL-C level is persistently above 180 mg/dL. Statins are the first line drugs starting from the lowest dose and are increased if necessary. The target LDL-C level should ideally be ＜140 mg/dL. Assessment of atherosclerosis is mainly performed by noninvasive methods such as ultrasound.For homozygous FH patients, the diagnosis is made by existence of skin xanthomas or tendon xanthomas from infancy, and untreated LDL-C levels are approximately twice those of heterozygous FH parents. The responsiveness to pharmacotherapy should be ascertained promptly and if the effect of treatment is not enough, LDL apheresis needs to be immediately initiated.

Treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia in paediatric patients: A monocentric experience

Background

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia is a rare life-threatening disease characterized by markedly elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations and accelerated atherosclerosis. The presence of double gene defects in the LDL-Receptor, either the same defect (homozygous) or two different LDL-raising mutations (compound heterozygotes) or other variants, identify the homozygous phenotype (HopFH). Apheresis is a procedure in which plasma is separated from red blood cells before the physical removal of LDL-C or the LDL-C is directly removed from whole blood. It is currently the treatment of choice for patients with HopFH whose LDL-C levels are not able to be reduced to target levels with conventional lipid-lowering drug therapy.

Design

The aim of this study is to report a cohort of six paediatric patients and to evaluate the long term efficacy of combined medical therapy and LDL-apheresis on LDL-C reduction.

Methods

We collected data from six children with confirmed diagnosis of HopFH (two females and four males; age range at diagnosis 3–8 years, mean 6 ± 1 years) from a single clinical hospital in Italy from 2007 to 2017.

Results

Clinical manifestations and outcomes may greatly vary in children with HopFH. Medical therapy and LDL-apheresis for the severe form should be started promptly in order to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions

Lipoprotein apheresis is a very important tool in managing patients with HopFH at high risk of cardiovascular disease. Based on our experience and the literature data, the method is feasible in very young children, efficient regarding biological results and cardiac events, and safe with minor side-effects and technical problems. We advise treating homozygous and compound heterozygous children as soon as possible.

Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Cascade Screening in Children and Relatives of the Affected

OBJECTIVE

Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited disorder of lipid metabolism characterized by very high low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol since birth, resulting in premature atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). Cascade screening of children and family members of proven FH individuals can identify more subjects who have high LDL cholesterol or the family mutation and appropriate intervention can reduce their risk of atherosclerosis and prevent its complications.

METHODS

Cascade screening by molecular testing, was carried out in 133 family members, comprising 24 children, of 31 probands with FH having a pathogenic mutation in LDLR/ApoB gene. Lipid profiles were obtained in 44 family members including 11 children.

RESULTS

Of 133 family members tested, 88 (66.1%) were identified to carry the family mutation. Twelve of these were children below 18 y of age and 76 were adults. CAD was present in 15 (11.2%) family members and 63(47.4%) family members, including nine children, were already on Lipid Lowering Therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Cascade screening led to identification of 88 new cases, with a pathogenic mutation, who were at a very high risk of developing premature CAD. The authors identified 12 children with family specific mutation, out of which 9 were initiated on low dose statin therapy. Four homozygous children were treated with high dose statins because of substantially increased risk of CAD. Cascade screening, therefore, proved to be a successful initiative towards primary prevention of CAD in India.

Genetic analysis in a compound heterozygote family with familial hypercholesterolemia

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is rare, with an incidence of ~one in a million and commonly presents with a genetic mutation. The genetic variations of families with FH were clinically analyzed to investigate the association between the phenotype and genotype of patients. Direct sequencing was conducted for the proband and her parents to detect mutations in the fragment of 18 exons of the low‑density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and apolipoprotein B100 Q3500R in the peripheral blood genomic DNA. The gene sequences were compared with normal ones to find mutations using GenBank. The QX200 Droplet Digital PCR system was used to detect target DNA copy number variations of the proband and her parents. The functional alterations resulting from the novel mutations were verified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and flow cytometric analyses. The lipid levels of the proband and her parents were all elevated. Genetic testing results indicated that the proband and her mother had a novel heterozygous missense mutation (C377G, 28893T>G) in exon 8 of the LDLR gene, whereas the proband and her father had LDLR gene DNA fragment deletions in exon 18. Clinically, the proband was of a compound heterozygous genotype and her parents were of the simple heterozygous genotype. Furthermore, both mutations led to impaired expression and LDL binding and internalization function of LDLR in vitro. The proband's genotype was confirmed to be compound heterozygous FH, leading to clinical manifestations in line with the homozygous FH phenotype. The phenotype is highly associated with the genotype in this type of compound heterozygous FH.