Bile acid kinetics, steroid balance and biliary lipids in hyperlipoproteinaemia type III.

Bile acid kinetics, steroid balance and biliary lipid composition were studied in 8 patients with hyperlipoproteinaemia (HLP) type III (broad-beta-disease). As a general finding the formation of bile acids exceeded the range encountered in normolipidaemic subjects, but the mean net steroid balance remained normal. On the basis of previous findings of a close correlation between the synthesis of VLDL-triglycerides and bile acids in other types of HPL it is suggested that HPL type III may be associated with an enhanced VLDL production. As a further indication of a disturbed cholesterol metabolism the bile was supersaturated with cholesterol in al subjects.