Vascular access for lipid apheresis: a challenge in young children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (hoFH) is a rare genetic disorder leading to extremely increased LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), resulting in high cardiovascular risk in early childhood. Lipid apheresis (LA) is an effective treatment and should be started as early as possible to prevent premature cardiovascular events. As peripheral punctures in children can be challenging due to small vessels and anxiety, this study aimed to evaluate feasibility and safety of central venous catheters (CVCs) as vascular access for LA in young children with hoFH.

Methods

Retrospective analysis (2016-2019) on four children with hoFH aged 3-5 years, performing weekly or biweekly LA with a CVC.

Results

LDL-C decreased by> 60%. In three children, the use of a permanent CVC for

SUBMITTER: Lischka J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8917672 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature