hyperbetalipoproteinemia /hī′pərbā′təlip′ōprō′tēnē″mē·ə/ [Gk, hyper + beta, second letter of Greek alphabet, lipos, fat, proteios, first rank, haima, blood] , type II hyperlipoproteinemia, a genetic disorder of lipid metabolism characterized by abnormally high levels of serum cholesterol and the appearance of xanthomas on the tendons of the heels, knees, and fingers. There is a marked tendency to development of atherosclerosis and early myocardial infarction, especially among males. Treatment attempts to reduce blood cholesterol levels in the hope of lowering the risk of early death from heart disease. The patient is usually counseled to avoid most meats, eggs, milk products, and all saturated fats and is encouraged to eat fish, grains, fruits, vegetables, lean poultry, and unsaturated fats. Exercise may be recommended, and drugs may be prescribed in some cases. See also cholesteremia.
