Diagnosing High Cholesterol in Children and Teens
To diagnose hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) in children and teens, doctors may perform various examinations, screening tests, and procedures. These help confirm a diagnosis and determine the type, severity, or stage of hypercholesterolemia. Specialists who may be involved in diagnosing hypercholesterolemia in children and teens include primary care physicians, pediatricians, and lipid specialists.
Here are the examinations, screening tests, and procedures commonly used to diagnose hypercholesterolemia in children and teens:
- Lipid Panel: A lipid panel is a blood test that measures cholesterol levels, including total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides. If LDL or total cholesterol levels are elevated, it may indicate hypercholesterolemia.
- Physical Examination: During a physical examination, the doctor will assess the child's overall health and look for any physical signs of hypercholesterolemia. These signs may include xanthomas (yellowish deposits under the skin) or xanthelasmas (yellowish patches around the eyes).
- Family History Evaluation: Hypercholesterolemia can have a genetic component. Therefore, doctors will evaluate the family history of high cholesterol or heart disease to identify any potential genetic factors.
- Risk Assessment: Doctors will assess other risk factors for hypercholesterolemia, such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, or a sedentary lifestyle. These factors can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.
Additional examinations, tests, or procedures may be performed based on initial findings, individual factors, or to determine the type and severity of hypercholesterolemia in children and teens, including:
- Genetic Testing: Genetic testing can help identify specific gene mutations associated with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited form of high cholesterol. This test can confirm a diagnosis of FH and provide information about its severity.
- Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It helps assess the structure and function of the heart and detect any signs of heart disease related to high cholesterol.
- Carotid Ultrasound: This non-invasive test uses sound waves to examine the carotid arteries in the neck. It helps assess the presence of plaque buildup or narrowing of the arteries due to high cholesterol.
- Coronary Angiography: In rare cases where severe cardiovascular disease is suspected in children or teens with hypercholesterolemia, coronary angiography may be performed. This procedure involves injecting contrast dye into the arteries to visualize any blockages or abnormalities.
It's important to note that these examinations and tests should always be performed under the guidance of healthcare professionals. If you suspect your child or teen has hypercholesterolemia or if there is a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, it's essential to consult with a doctor who can provide personalized advice and guidance based on their medical history and symptoms.