Many studies have confirmed the risk of coronary artery disease associated
with elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The pr
ecise role of other lipids, however, is still under investigation. The rela
tion between elevated levels of triglycerides and low levels of high-densit
y lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is complex, and the results of clinical t
rials evaluating interventions to lower triglycerides or increase levels of
HDL-C have been equivocal. Based on the data currently available, LDL-C re
mains the primary target for treatment. Ongoing clinical trials will help t
o answer the question of how low we should set our goals for lowering chole
sterol in patients at risk. (C) 2001 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.