Role of lipoprotein apheresis in cardiovascular disease risk reduction

Abstract

Background and Aim: Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and/or lipoprotein(a) are established risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Management of hypercholesterolemia consists of drug therapies, including statins and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors. In patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), lipoprotein apheresis (LA) is utilized to control lipid levels. However, LA is not currently a standard therapy for non-FH. This review summarizes the literature regarding LA therapy in CVD prevention. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE databases were searched using the keywords “LA” and “CVD”. Citations were individually reviewed for relevance. Results: The efficacy of LA was clearly demonstrated, largely based on evidence from observational studies. In patients who are unresponsive to traditional lipid-lowering medications, LA effectively reduced serum lipoprotein levels and adverse cardiovascular events. Conclusion: It was concluded that LA is a safe and effective technique that could be considered in the management of hypercholesterolemia and future risk. Randomized control trials would further support a role for LA as a therapeutic option.