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Jul 19, 2016Article Details
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Main Article Content
High prevalence of primary dyslipidaemia in black South African patients at a tertiary hospital in northern Gauteng, South Africa
Abstract
Objective. To assess the burden and prevalence of dyslipidaemia in the SA black population at Dr George Mukhari Hospital in the north region of Gauteng.
Method. A retrospective data analysis of 12-month lipid profiles comprising triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and directly measured low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDLC).
Results. There were 24 656 requests for 6 348 patients. The lipid cut-off levels were somewhat arbitrary but were based on the commonly used decision-making levels in the treatment guidelines. Severe hypercholesterolaemia (>7 mmol/L) was seen in 299 (4.7%) patients and extreme hypercholesterolaemia (>12 mmol/L) was seen in 30 (0.5%) patients. LDLC (>5 mmol/L) occurred in 80 (1.3%) patients and >10 mmol/L in 19 (0.3%) patients. A predominant triglyceride problem was seen in 578 (9.1%) patients with TG (>2 mmol/L) and TC (<5 mmol/L), whereas moderate hypertriglyceridaemia (>5 mmol/L) was present in 113 (1.8%) patients, and more severe hypertriglyceridaemia (>10 mmol/L) in 10 (0.2%). TC (>5 mmol/L) with LDL (>3 mmol/L) but TG in the normal range was seen in 369 (5.8%) patients, indicating a cholesterol-predominant problem. In contrast, LDLC (>3 mmol/L) and TG (>1.7 mmol/L) was seen in 249 (3.87%) representing mixed hyperlipidaemia. Paediatric patients with severe dyslipidaemia mostly suffered from nephrotic syndrome.
Conclusion. A significant burden and a high prevalence of dyslipidaemias were present in adults in whom a monogenic disorder should be considered. The extent and severity of dyslipidaemia justify a special clinic and laboratory to ensure accurate diagnosis with effective intervention for patients and their families.
