Hyperlipoproteinemias: Part II. Screening and patient classification.

The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends measuring the total nonfasting serum cholesterol in all individuals 20 years of age or older. By definition, a desirable level is less than 200 mg/dL, borderline-high is 200-239 mg/dL, and high is greater than or equal to 240 mg/dl. Subsequent classification is based on the LDL-cholesterol level with a value of less than 130 mg/dL considered to be desirable. The appropriate approach to screening for hypercholesterolemia in children and the elderly is debated and awaits definitive recommendations.