Liver Function in Patients with Elevated Serum Cholesterol or Low-Density Lipoproteins

Abstract

Liver function tests were performed in 42 individuals with increased levels of serum cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins. The tests were normal in 39 patients; the sulfobromophthalein excretion was impaired in 3. These results indicate that disturbances in liver function are not usually involved in elevations of serum triglycerides. Other clinical evidence is discussed which suggests that the heparin lipoprotein-lipase lipolytic mechanism, but not the liver or reticuloendothelial system, occupies the initial role in the removal of alimentary fat from the bloodstream in man.