Definition/ICD
Hypercholesterolemia refers to an increase in total cholesterol above a certain threshold. If the cholesterol level in the blood is above 200 mg/dl, this corresponds to hypercholesterolemia. High cholesterol levels have been shown to increase the risk of arteriosclerosis, thickening and hardening of the artery walls.
Cholesterol is largely produced by the body itself. It fulfils various functions in the formation of cell membranes and participates in metabolic processes. A small amount of cholesterol is supplied by animal products through food.
The distribution of cholesterol in the body is achieved by incorporation into so-called lipoproteins. These consist mainly of protein and fats. The co-determination of the HDL and LDL portion of the total cholesterol contributes to the exact assessment of the risk profile.
While LDL, the “bad” cholesterol, remains in the tissue, HDL transports the cholesterol back to the liver. There it is broken down and excreted via the bile acid. One also speaks of “good” cholesterol.
According to ICD, the international classification of diseases, pure hypercholesterolemia is given the number E. 78. 0. Numerous subcategories fall under the same item, which specify a familial disposition or the elevation of a certain lipoprotein. If the total cholesterol value is between 200 and 230 mg/dl and/or the LDL value is above 160 mg/dl, we speak of an elevated cholesterol level.
Causes
There are basically two different causes that can lead to an increased cholesterol level. The so-called secondary hypercholesterolemia is by far the most common form. It can occur as a consequence of various diseases or in long-term, high-fat diets.
Hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus and kidney disease, the so-called nephrotic syndrome, are among the chronic diseases with an increased risk of hypercholesterolemia. Alcohol abuse is also seen in connection with the secondary form. Fat-rich nutrition, which contains a large portion of animal products, is a decisive cause of high total cholesterol.
Saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids increase LDL cholesterol. Primary or familial hypercholesterolemia is due to a genetic predisposition in which there is a deficiency or even a lack of receptors for LDL lipoproteins. The LDL cholesterol circulating in the blood is not absorbed into the cells and remains in the bloodstream.
It can be measured as high cholesterol. In many cases of a lipometabolic disorder, genetic predisposition plays a role. Mostly it manifests itself only in an unhealthy lifestyle. What is oxidative stress?