Pediatric Lipid Disorders Flashcards

At what age does the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend universal lipid screening for children?

Answer: Age 9-11 years

Universal lipid screening is recommended for all children at ages 9-11 years and again at ages 17-21 years.

Which lipoprotein particle is most atherogenic in children with familial hypercholesterolemia?

Answer: LDL-C

LDL-C is the primary atherogenic particle in heterozygous and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia in children.

A 10-year-old presents with tendon xanthomas and an LDL-C of 520 mg/dL. Which diagnosis is most consistent?

Answer: Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

Tendon xanthomas with LDL-C >400 mg/dL in a child strongly suggests homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

Which statin is FDA-approved for use in children as young as 8 years of age with heterozygous FH?

Answer: Pravastatin

Pravastatin is approved for children aged 8 and older with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

In pediatric hypertriglyceridemia, which triglyceride level threshold raises concern for pancreatitis risk?

Answer: >500 mg/dL

Triglyceride levels exceeding 500 mg/dL significantly increase pancreatitis risk and require prompt intervention.

Which genetic mutation is most commonly associated with familial hypercholesterolemia in children?

Answer: LDLR loss-of-function

Loss-of-function mutations in the LDLR gene account for approximately 80% of familial hypercholesterolemia cases.

What is the recommended LDL-C target for a high-risk child with heterozygous FH and additional cardiovascular risk factors?

Answer: <100 mg/dL

For high-risk pediatric patients with FH and additional risk factors, an LDL-C goal of <100 mg/dL is recommended.