[Which lipid parameters are atherogenic? Pathological lipid values and their therapeutic consequences]

In cross-sectional investigations, disturbances in lipid metabolism are found in about 40-50% of the population. A particularly close correlation is found between cardiovascular mortality and elevated LDL cholesterol. But disordered triglyceride metabolism and increased concentrations of lipoprotein(a) are also considered major factors that further the atherosclerosis process. A knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and the possibilities for influencing lipid metabolic disorders provide the basis for rational treatment. Unfortunately, disorders in lipid metabolism often continue to go undetected until the so-called endpoints (infarction, stroke) have occurred.