Characterization of plasma lipids and lipoproteins in cholesteryl ester storage disease

Cholesteryl ester storage disease, caused by the loss of lysosomal acid ester hydrolase (EC 3.1.1.13), has been previously associated with hyperlipidemia and premature atherosclerosis. We identified a 23-month-old female with cholesteryl ester storage disease and characterized the plasma lipids and lipoproteins in the proband and her family. These studies illustrate several important points about this disease. First, a high index of suspicion is required to diagnose this disease since the major physical manifestation of the disorder, mild hepatomegaly, is subtle. Second, the Type II hyperlipoproteinemia in the proband is paralleled by a reduction in the concentration of high density lipoproteins. Third, analysis of the plasma lipids and lipoproteins in family members revealed both Type II and Type IV hyperlipoproteinemia with an inheritance pattern similar to that of familial combined hyperlipoproteinemia. Fourth, the parents and brother of this patient had 50% normal fibroblast acid ester hydrolase activity. These results raise the possibility that deficiency of the lysosomal acid ester hydrolase may be linked to familial combined hyperlipoproteinemia and that this enzyme deficiency may be more common than previously appreciated.