11Type III hyperlipidemia is characterized by the accumulation of IDL (beta-VLDL), which is manifested by increases in both triglyceride levels and cholesterol levels in the plasma. A genetic basis for the primary disorder, familial dysbetalipoproteinemia, has been well established. Various mutations of apoprotein E impair its ability to bind to the IDL receptor. Patients with type III present as adults with premature atherosclerosis and, particularly, plane (palmar) xanthomas.[1]