About Familial hypercholanemia

What is Familial hypercholanemia?

Familial hypercholanemia (FH) is an inherited disorder that causes abnormally high levels of cholesterol in the blood. It is caused by a mutation in the gene that controls the production of a protein called PCSK9, which helps regulate cholesterol levels. People with FH are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, as well as medications to lower cholesterol levels.

What are the symptoms of Familial hypercholanemia?

The most common symptoms of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) include:

-High levels of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol)
-High levels of triglycerides
-Early onset of heart disease
-Xanthomas (cholesterol deposits under the skin)
-Arcus corneae (white or gray ring around the cornea of the eye)
-Tendon xanthomas (cholesterol deposits in the tendons)
-Liver dysfunction
-Abnormal blood clotting
-High blood pressure
-Stroke
-Kidney disease
-Diabetes

What are the causes of Familial hypercholanemia?

Familial hypercholanemia (FH) is an inherited disorder caused by mutations in the gene that encodes the enzyme, ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCB11). Mutations in this gene lead to a decrease in the activity of the enzyme, resulting in an accumulation of bile acids in the blood. This accumulation of bile acids can lead to a variety of symptoms, including jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and itching.

What are the treatments for Familial hypercholanemia?

1. Dietary changes: Eating a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet can help reduce cholesterol levels.

2. Medications: Statins, bile acid sequestrants, and other cholesterol-lowering medications can help reduce cholesterol levels.

3. Liver transplant: In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary to reduce cholesterol levels.

4. LDL apheresis: This procedure removes cholesterol from the blood by filtering it out.

5. PCSK9 inhibitors: These medications can help reduce cholesterol levels by blocking the action of a protein that helps the body absorb cholesterol.

What are the risk factors for Familial hypercholanemia?

1. Family history of FH
2. Genetic mutation in the LDLR gene
3. High levels of LDL cholesterol
4. High levels of triglycerides
5. Obesity
6. Diabetes
7. High blood pressure
8. Smoking
9. Lack of physical activity
10. Poor diet

Is there a cure/medications for Familial hypercholanemia?

Yes, there are medications and treatments available for familial hypercholesterolemia. These include statins, bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking can help manage the condition.