Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) deficiency causes type I hyperlipoproteinaemia characterised by a markedly elevated fasting plasma triglyceride. The creamy supernatant on standing of such plasma indicates excess:

• A LDL particles
• B Chylomicrons ✓
• C HDL particles
• D VLDL particles

Explanation

Chylomicrons are the largest and least dense lipoproteins (density <0.94 g/mL) and float to form a creamy supernatant when plasma stands at 4°C for 12 hours; their accumulation is the hallmark of LPL deficiency or apoC-II deficiency (apoC-II activates LPL). VLDL appears as turbid infranate. LDL and HDL are too dense to float. This is an important distinguishing feature in hyperlipoproteinaemia classification.

Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.