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Hyperlipidemia primary prevention — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareHyperlipidemia primary preventionUSMLE Step 3

A 46-year-old man has fasting lipids checked at a wellness visit. LDL cholesterol is 196 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol is 48 mg/dL, and triglycerides are 130 mg/dL. He has no diabetes, hypertension, or clinical ASCVD. Physical examination is normal. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: C — Start high-intensity statin therapy

LDL cholesterol of at least 190 mg/dL warrants high-intensity statin therapy for primary prevention regardless of calculated 10-year risk.

Reference: ACC/AHA Multisociety Cholesterol Guideline