Familial Hypercholesterolemia Treatment in Dubai

Familial Hypercholesterolemia Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group

Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder characterized by high cholesterol levels, specifically elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, from birth. If left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of early heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. At Emirates Hospitals, our team of expert cardiologists, lipid specialists, and genetic counselors provide comprehensive care for patients with FH. Our advanced diagnostic facilities, personalized treatment plans, and cutting-edge therapies ensure that patients receive the highest standard of care. With a focus on early detection and lifelong management, we help patients reduce cardiovascular risks and maintain heart health.

Our Services Include:

• Experienced team of Cardiologists & Lipid Specialists
• Advanced Diagnostic Lab for Genetic and Cholesterol Testing
• Personalized Treatment Plans
• Lifestyle and Dietary Counseling

Familial Hypercholesterolemia Overview

Familial Hypercholesterolemia is caused by genetic mutations that impair the body’s ability to remove LDL (“bad”) cholesterol from the blood. There are two main types:

• Heterozygous FH: One defective gene, more common, can lead to premature heart disease.
• Homozygous FH: Two defective genes, rare and severe, often leading to cardiovascular disease in childhood or adolescence.

Symptoms may not always be apparent early, but some individuals develop xanthomas (fatty deposits under the skin), xanthelasmas (yellowish deposits around the eyes), or corneal arcus (cholesterol deposits around the cornea).

Diagnosis of Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Early detection is key to managing FH effectively. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Family and Medical History: Assessing history of early heart disease in family members.
• Blood Tests: Measuring total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels.
• Genetic Testing: Identifying mutations in LDL receptor or related genes to confirm diagnosis.

Treatment of Familial Hypercholesterolemia

While FH cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively to reduce cardiovascular risks. Treatment protocols include:

• Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol
  • Regular physical activity
  • Avoiding smoking and alcohol abuse

• Medications:

  • Statins to reduce LDL cholesterol

  • Ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors for patients not achieving target levels with statins alone

• Advanced Therapies:

  • Lipoprotein apheresis in severe cases to remove LDL cholesterol directly from the blood

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Management of FH requires lifelong monitoring to prevent heart disease. Protocols include:

• Regular blood tests to track cholesterol levels
• Routine heart check-ups and imaging to detect early cardiovascular disease
• Ongoing adjustment of medications and lifestyle strategies based on response

Prevention and Family Screening

Since FH is inherited, early detection in children and other family members is critical. Screening allows for timely intervention and reduces long-term health risks. Recommendations include:

• Genetic testing for first-degree relatives
• Cholesterol monitoring from a young age
• Adopting heart-healthy lifestyle habits early