Definition: Sitosterolemia is a rare, inherited condition in which phytosterols, or plant sterols, cannot be broken down properly in the body. When this occurs, these chemicals build up in the body, causing high cholesterol levels, high levels of plant sterols, and the formation of xanthomas.
Individuals with sitosterolemia should avoid any products containing phytosterols – including vegetables, nuts and other sources of vegetable fat. Additionally, cholesterol-lowering medications, such as absorption inhibitors and bile acid sequestrants, may be taken to help lower the amount of plant sterols circulating in the blood.
