If a patient reports having "high cholesterol," what is the correct documentation in the PMHx?

The appropriate documentation in the patient's past medical history (PMHx) for the report of "high cholesterol" is hyperlipidemia (HLD). This term broadly covers high levels of lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides, in the blood. It is a standardized medical term commonly used in clinical settings to describe the condition in a precise and clear way while being consistent with medical coding and billing practices.

Hyperlipidemia encompasses various types of lipid abnormalities, allowing healthcare providers to understand that the patient might have either cholesterol or triglyceride elevations, or both. Using this term provides clarity regarding the patient's lipid status and is also preferred for accurately reflecting the condition in the medical record.

While the other terms mentioned also relate to cholesterol levels, they may not be as universally recognized or may refer to more specific conditions. For instance, hypercholesterolemia specifically refers to elevated cholesterol levels only, and cholesterolemia is a less common term that may not be as clearly understood in clinical practice. "High Cholesterol Syndrome," while descriptive, is not a recognized medical term and suggests a collection of symptoms or conditions rather than a specific diagnosis. Therefore, using hyperlipidemia is both appropriate and beneficial for effective communication in healthcare settings.