Family history of familial hypercholesterolemia

This code indicates a documented family history of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a genetic disorder characterized by very high levels of LDL cholesterol from birth. This condition significantly increases the risk of early-onset cardiovascular disease in affected individuals.

Use this code when a patient reports a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) or other close family member diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia. This is particularly relevant during preventative care visits, cardiovascular risk assessments, or when evaluating a patient with elevated cholesterol levels.

• Always confirm the family member's diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia, not just general hypercholesterolemia.
• This code is for family history only; do not use it if the patient themselves has been diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia.
• Consider using this code in conjunction with codes for the patient's own lipid disorders or cardiovascular risk factors, if applicable.