Clinical Significance

Plasma lipoproteins are spherical particles containing various amounts of cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids, and proteins. The relative proportions of protein and lipid determine the density of these lipoproteins and provide the basis on which to classify them. These classes are chylomicrons, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and high density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is recognized as a key risk factor for coronary atherosclerotic disease (CHD).

LDL cholesterol is the key factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and CHD. Even within the normal range of total cholesterol concentrations, an increase in LDL cholesterol can occur with an associated increased risk for CHD.