Types of elevated lipoproteins may vary between affected family members. Cholesterol deposits in the skin, called xanthomas, that are seen in other disorders of elevated lipoproteins are not seen in this disorder. This disorder predisposes the person to increased risk of early coronary artery disease. The incidence of obesity and glucose intolerance is increased. The condition is worsened by diabetes , alcoholism , and hypothyroidism .
Risk factors are a family history of high cholesterol and early coronary artery disease.
The incidence is 2 out of 1000 people. Screening of family members of people with familial combined hyperlipidemia should be undertaken to facilitate early treatment. Sometimes younger children may have mild hyperlipidemia . The goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic heart disease . Diet modification is the initial phase of treatment and is tried for several months before drug therapy is added.