Familial hyperlipoproteinemia and gallstones.

Of 108 patients with familial hyperlipoproteinemia between the ages of 22 and 85 years (mean, 55.1 years) 46 (42.6%) had cholelithiasis. Among the 53 patients with type II hyperlipoproteinemia 20 (38%) had gallstones; the male:female ratio was 1:2; the mean serum triglyceride value was significantly higher in those with gallstones. Among the 50 patients with type IV hyperlipoproteinemia 25 (50%) had gallstones; the male:female ratio was 1:1; the mean age was significantly higher in those with gallstones. Among the five patients with type V hyperlipoproteinemia one had gallstones. Electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial damage was present in 47 (44%) of the 108 patients; 18 (39%) of the 46 patients with gallstones showed such abnormalities, while 26 (24%) showed sinus bradycardia.