Due to the elevated proportion of individuals with apolipoprotein (apo) B dyslipoproteinemias and the availability of effective therapy, an algorithm for the diagnosis of apo B dyslipoproteinemias is critically important in clinical practice. In this review paper, de Graaf, Couture, and Sniderman present an algorithm for diagnosing these lipid disorders based on total cholesterol, triglyceride, and apo B concentrations. Because these three lipid variables are accurately and inexpensively determined in clinical laboratories, the authors propose that the algorithm can be used by all physicians. By including apo B in the algorithm, lipoprotein number and composition can be deduced and each of the classic dyslipoproteinemias identified. The addition of apo B to actual algorithms should move the field forward regarding the diagnosis and treatment of dyslipoproteinemias.
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