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Published on: September 15, 2018
Management of Pregnancy in a Patient with Familial Hypercholesterolemia and Previous Myocardial Infarction-Treatment
Milos Milincic1, Jovana Todorovic2,3, Stefan Dugalic1,2
1Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
Insights
This case study shows that LDL apheresis is a safe and effective treatment for homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia during pregnancy, ensuring the health of both mother and baby.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder causing high LDL-C, increasing cardiovascular risks.
- Pregnancy in FH patients presents challenges due to elevated cardiovascular disease risks.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old woman with homozygous FH (HoFH), ischemic cardiomyopathy, and angina was pregnant.
- Statins were stopped for pregnancy planning, leading to elevated lipids.
Findings:
- LDL apheresis was initiated, reducing LDL-C by 60%.
- 16 sessions of LDL apheresis every 14 days maintained optimal lipid profiles throughout pregnancy.
- A healthy infant was delivered via cesarean section at 38 weeks.
Implications:
- LDL apheresis is a feasible and safe therapeutic option for managing HoFH during pregnancy.
- This approach ensures maternal and fetal well-being in high-risk pregnancies.
- Further research into novel treatments for FH in pregnancy is warranted.
Abstract:
Familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder marked by elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), poses significant risks for premature atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, particularly during pregnancy. One of the safe methods of treating this condition in pregnancy is with the use of LDL apheresis. We present a 38-year-old primigravida with homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), ischemic cardiomyopathy, and angina pectoris. Two years before conception, extremely elevated lipid levels prompted statin therapy and lifestyle changes. Stent placements followed acute myocardial infarction. When planning pregnancy, statins were discontinued, but lipid levels elevated. LDL apheresis was initiated, achieving a 60% reduction. Throughout pregnancy, 16 LDL apheresis sessions were performed every 14 days, maintaining optimal lipid profiles. A cesarean section was performed in the 38th week of gestation, delivering a healthy infant. The patient resumed statin therapy after 8 months of breastfeeding. The patient maintained cardiovascular health, demonstrating the feasibility of controlled HoFH pregnancies. This case highlights the successful management of HoFH during pregnancy using LDL apheresis, ensuring maternal and fetal well-being. Future research on novel treatments and their safety during pregnancy is essential for refining therapeutic approaches in similar cases.
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