[Hyperlipoproteinemia in mentally retarded children].

Screening revealed a significantly higher incidence of hyperlipoproteinaemia in mentally retarded children in an Institute for Social Welfare than in the healthy child population (P 1%). In the aetiology participate most markedly secondary influences ensuing in particular from complications of the basic diagnosis of oligophrenia. It is mainly a question of the action of antiepileptics, neuroleptics, the influence of viral hepatic infections and other endogenous and exogenous factors. Early diagnosis of hyperlipoproteinaemia is possible so far only by biochemical methods. It is essential for genetic counselling, for prevention of deterioration as regards mental retardation, restriction of pharmacotherapy and later for a reduced risk of development of cardiovascular disease.