Effect of LDL-apheresis on Serum Levels of Lipoprotein (a) in a Patient with Diabetic Nephropathy Accompanied by HyperLp (a) aemia

Abstract

High levels of lipoproteins (a) (Lp (a)) are strongly associated with atherosclerosis. We describe a case of diabetic nephropathy who suffered from myocardial infarction associated with hyper Lp (a) aemia. Plasma concentrations of Lp(a) were elevated in this patient compared with those of controls (76 vs. 18.3±10.4mg/dl, mean±SD). LDL-apheresis using a liposorber system was performed in this patient. Total and LDL-cholesterol levels decreased by 42 and 46%, respectively. Lp (a) levels decreased by 72%. Thallium-201 single photon emission computed tomographic images were remarkably improved during LDL apheresis.
These results suggest that LDL apheresis may be an alternative therapy in drug resistant hyperLp (a) aemia.