Small, dense low-density lipoprotein: risk or myth?

Based on the particle diameter of the major subpopulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in plasma, an individual may be classified either as having phenotype A (desirable phenotype; large, buoyant LDL) or phenotype B (high risk; small, dense LDL). This article reviews the clinical significance of LDL particle diameter determination and proposes a strategy for incorporating this information in the new guidelines of the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III.