Familial Hypercholesterolemia is characterized by very high serum levels of which type of lipoprotein?

• A. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL)
• B. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL)
• C. Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL)
• D. Triglycerides

Answer: (B)

Familial Hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disorder that leads to significantly elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood, primarily due to issues related to the metabolism of low-density lipoprotein (LDL). In individuals with this condition, mutations in the LDL receptor gene result in a reduced ability to clear LDL from the bloodstream. Consequently, individuals experience very high serum levels of LDL, which is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because it contributes to the buildup of plaques in arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

In contrast, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is considered "good cholesterol" and functions to transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver for disposal. Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) primarily carries triglycerides, which are another type of fat in the body. While triglycerides can also be elevated in some lipid disorders, they are not the primary concern in familial hypercholesterolemia. Therefore, the correct identification of LDL as the lipoprotein with very high serum levels in this condition is crucial for understanding the pathology and the corresponding cardiovascular risks associated with familial hypercholesterolemia.