DLCN Score Calculator

Dutch Lipid Clinic Network Criteria for Familial Hypercholesterolemia

The Dutch Lipid Clinic Network Score (DLCN) is a diagnostic tool used to identify individuals who are likely to have Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH), a genetic disorder characterized by high cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The score helps clinicians decide whether further genetic testing for FH is warranted.

The DLCN score is based on several criteria, including:

Family History: Points are given if there is a history of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) or known elevated cholesterol levels in first-degree relatives.
Clinical History: This includes personal history of premature CVD, which is defined by specific age cut-offs for men and women, and tendon xanthomas (cholesterol deposits) also earn points.
Physical Examination: Presence of tendon xanthomas or arcus cornealis (cholesterol deposits in the eye) adds to the score.
Cholesterol Levels: Levels of LDL-C are graded, with higher levels resulting in more points.
DNA Analysis: Identification of a known FH mutation significantly boosts the score.

The total score places individuals into different categories for the likelihood of having FH:

Definite FH: A score above 8 points

Probable FH: A score between 6-8 points

Possible FH: A score between 3-5 points

Unlikely FH: A score below 3 points

The DLCN score is used mainly by healthcare providers to stratify risk and decide on further diagnostic procedures or aggressive treatment plans. It guides clinical decision-making, particularly in decisions about genetic testing and interventions to manage cholesterol levels.

Calculate DLCN Score

Total Cholesterol (mmol/L)

LDL Cholesterol (mmol/L)

Triglycerides (mmol/L)

Age (years)

Gender

Male

Female

Monogenic Trait

Family History

Clinical History

Xanthomas Present

Arcus Cornealis (before age 45)

Results

Dutch Lipid Clinic Network Criteria (DLCN) Score:

Formula been modified for DLCN of FH score calculation in partial fulfillment for PhD program at SQU in Clinical Biochemistry by Mohsin Al Saleh (2025)