While hospitalized,an elderly patient with a history of myocardial infarction was noted to have high levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs).What is the significance of this finding?
A) Increased LDL levels are associated with increased risk of coronary artery disease.
B) Measures to decrease LDL levels in the elderly would be unlikely to affect the progression of this disease.
C) Increased LDL levels are indicative of moderate alcohol intake, and patients should be advised to abstain.
D) Elevated LDL levels are an expected finding in the elderly and therefore are not particularly significant.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs),which are high in cholesterol,have been associated with the highest risk of coronary atherosclerosis.Even when lipid metabolism is normal,a high-fat diet can overwhelm the liver's ability to clear LDL cholesterol from the circulation and result in hyperlipidemia.Dietary fat restriction may be beneficial in reducing cholesterol in this case.Increased LDL levels are not indicative of alcohol intake.Elevated LDL levels are not an expected finding in the elderly and should be treated.

While Hospitalized,an Elderly Patient with a History of Myocardial Infarction