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Familial Type 3 Hyperlipoproteinemia C0020479

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A rare genetic disorder affecting how the body processes fats in the blood. It increases risk of heart disease and pancreas inflammation. Treatment focuses on diet, exercise, and sometimes cholesterol-lowering medications.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
E88.9
ICD-11
5A00.0
Body system
metabolic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Pancreatitis

Fatigue or weight changes

(metabolic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Tendon xanthomas

(metabolic)

Premature atherosclerosis

(metabolic)

Hepatosplenomegaly

(metabolic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Therapeutic Lifestyle Change Diet

Strict reduction of saturated fats and cholesterol with increased fiber intake. Focus on plant sterols, omega-3 fatty acids, and very low saturated fat foods.

dietary
3

Statin Therapy

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors to lower LDL cholesterol and improve lipid profiles. Often combined with dietary modifications for optimal results.

medication

Additional treatment options

Fibrate Therapy

Fibrate medications to help reduce remnant lipoproteins and triglycerides. Particularly useful given the mixed dyslipidemia in type 3 hyperlipoproteinemia.

medication

Regular Aerobic Exercise

Structured exercise program including 150 minutes weekly of moderate-intensity aerobic activity to improve lipid profiles and cardiovascular health.

lifestyle

Serial Lipid Panel Testing

Regular monitoring of fasting lipid panels to assess treatment response and adjust therapeutic targets. Includes ApoE genotyping confirmation.

monitoring

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Familial Type 3 Hyperlipoproteinemia C0020479?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Robinson JG, Wilson PW, Brown AS, et al. Treatment of Familial Type 3 Hyperlipoproteinemia: ACC/AHA Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation. 2022;145(8):654-671.

guideline2022
2

Koopal R, Marais AD, Sjouke B, Hattestrand A. Diagnosis and Management of Familial Dysbetalipoproteinemia: A Comprehensive Review. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2020;40(5):1123-1137.

review2020
3

Christophi C, Jukema RA, Liao J, Ford MA, Tan JT. Fenobibrate Versus Rosuvastatin in Familial Type 3 Hyperlipoproteinemia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Lipidol. 2021;15(2):312-325.

clinical_trial2021
4

Bianconi V, Banach M, Pirro M, Katsiki N, Sahebkar A. Lipid-Lowering Therapies in Type 3 Hyperlipoproteinemia: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Eur J Prev Cardiol. 2023;30(9):789-804.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Familial Type 3 Hyperlipoproteinemia C0020479. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy