[Reference values of plasma and lipoprotein cholesterol and triacylglycerols in healthy children]

A sample of a reference population was selected from an all-inclusive population by a method based on strict physiological and clinical criteria. Sociological and ethnic factors as well as the biological plasma evaluation of the parents were used as family exclusion parameters. Cholesterol and triacylglycerols were measured in total plasma as well as in each lipoprotein fraction isolated by ultracentrifugation. The values are described as functions of sex and age. Total cholesterol varied little with age and sex. It is higher in girls except for HDL values. The maximum difference between boys and girls (age group 15-19 yrs) is mainly due to LDL-bound cholesterol. Plasma triacylglycerol values are generally higher in girls than in boys, particularly for VLDL. The minimum difference is in the age group 15-19 yrs.