Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Homozygous FH

What is homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia?

There are two forms of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH):

  • Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia (HeFH)
  • Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia (HoFH).

The most severe and rare form is HoFH. Individuals with HoFH typically have untreated LDL levels between 400 and 1000 mg/dL. That’s four to 10 times the normal level. If left untreated, people with HoFH can develop heart disease in their early teenage years, sometimes as early as two or three years of old.

While HeFH is common, HoFH is a rare disorder. It is estimated that HoFH is found in 1 in 300,000 people around the world.

This rare disease happens when someone inherits two FH genes, one from each parent.

What's the Difference between HeFH and HoFH?

How is HoFH diagnosed?

HoFH can be diagnosed with a blood test, a physical exam, and family history. Every form of FH looks different in every person, but there are some physical signs and symptoms of HoFH:

Family History

HoFH is a family disorder. A person who has HoFH has inherited two FH genes, one from each parent.

High Cholesterol - symptom of HoFH

High Cholesterol

Individuals with HoFH have LDL cholesterol levels over 400 mg/dL, and often much higher at birth.

Xanthelasmas and Xanthomas - HoFH symptom

Xanthelasmas and Xanthomas

Xanthelasmas and xanthomas are cholesterol deposits that are found under the skin or around the eyes.

Corneal Arcus - Symptom of HoFH

Corneal Arcus

Corneal Arcus is a half-circle or full-circle of gray, white, or yellow cholesterol deposits in the outer edge of the cornea.

HoFH is Severe

It is important to remember that HoFH is a serious and life-threatening medical condition. HoFH leads to progressive and early heart disease in both men and women, as well as children.

Cholesterol deposits in the arteries of the heart can cause heart attacks in people under the age of 10, sometimes as early as two or three years old!

That’s why, if you or your child are diagnosed with HoFH, one of the first steps to take – as soon as possible – is to seek expert care.

Arteries and Plaque (FH and HoFH symptoms)
Hands with pills

Treating HoFH

There are multiple treatments for FH available today and several more in development.

Treating HoFH
FH Community - your are not alone

Supporting HoFH Individuals

The Family Heart Foundation hosts an online support group for individuals and family members affected by HoFH.

Join our community
Finding an FH Specialist

Finding an FH Specialist

HoFH is a complicated, life-threatening medical condition that requires an FH specialist's care.

Find Now
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Find help getting the care you deserve

Navigating health care today can be frustrating and difficult. The Family Heart Foundation can help you navigate your journey FH. Experts at the Care Navigation Center are ready to answer all your questions.

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Page reviewed by: Dr. Mary McGowan