Hyperlipidaemia results from genetic and acquired derangements in the metabolism of plasma lipoproteins. The principal lipoprotein-related cardiovascular risk factors for atherosclerotic complications being increased levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and low levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL).
The diagnosis and management of disorders of lipoproteins require an understanding of lipoprotein structure, function, and metabolism.