Disturbances of lipid metabolism in children with chronic renal failure

This review discusses the pathogenesis, clinical significance and current therapy of hyperlipoproteinaemia (HLP) in children with chronic renal failure. Uraemic dyslipidaemia, characterized by hypertriglyceridaemia and low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, is present in the majority patients with chronic renal failure. In addition, serum levels of total cholesterol, very lowdensity lipoprotein-cholesterol, low-density lipoproteincholesterol and apolipoprotein B are frequently elevated. The pathophysiological mechanisms causing these disturbances are complex and mainly involve a diminished catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. For unknown reasons and independent of other lipoproteins, serum levels of the highly atherogenic and thrombogenic lipoprotein(a) are also often elevated. HLP is an important factor in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In addition, dyslipidaemia may enhance progression of renal disease in patients with residual renal function. Therefore, treatment of HLP seems indicated in overtly hyperlipidaemic patients, but until there is more experience with lipid-lowering drugs in children, no safe recommendations for pharmacological treatment of HLP can be given. Dietary modifications can be recommended only to a limited extent.