Table 3.

Screening for familial hypercholesterolaemia in children and adolescents

If DNA testing is available, cascade screening of families is recommended using both a phenotypic and genotypic strategy. If DNA testing is not available, a phenotypic strategy based on country, age- and gender-specific LDL-C levels should be used. Children with suspected HeFH should be screened from the age of 5 years; screening for HoFH should be undertaken when clinically suspected (both parents affected or xanthoma present) and as early as possible. Age at screening should be similar for boys and girls. Universal screening in childhood may also be considered.