Small Dense LDL: Scientific Background, Clinical Relevance, and Recent Evidence Still a Risk Even with ‘Normal’ LDL-C Levels

Abstract

Residual cardiovascular disease event risk, following statin use and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction, remains an important and common medical conundrum. Identifying patients with significant residual risk, despite statin drug use, is an unmet clinical need. One pathophysiologic disorder that contributes to residual risk is abnormal distribution in lipoprotein size and density, which is referred to as lipoprotein heterogeneity. Differences in low density lipoprotein (LDL) composition and size have been linked to coronary heart disease (CHD) risk and arteriographic disease progression. The clinical relevance has been investigated in numerous trials since the 1950s. Despite this long history, controversy remains regarding the clinical utility of LDL heterogeneity measurement. Recent clinical trial evidence reinforces the relevance of LDL heterogeneity measurement and the impact on CHD risk prediction and outcomes. The determination of LDL subclass distribution improves CHD risk prediction and guides appropriate treatment.