Lipoprotein A

(Lp-A)

₹659~~₹1000~~ 34% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Lipoprotein A

What is Lipoprotein A?

A Lipoprotein A test measures a specific particle, known as lipoprotein (a), in the blood. It is performed to assess the risk of possible heart diseases such as heart attack, and stroke. The test is usually performed in people with a family history of heart disease or in those at high risk for developing heart ailments.

Lipoprotein A (Lp-A) is a type of lipoprotein, a mixture of fat and protein, that transports cholesterol in the blood to cells throughout the body. Lp-A is genetically inherited and in high levels, it is a common independent risk factor for heart diseases like Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) and also for diseases like Ischaemic Stroke. This means that Lp-A particles alone can also contribute to plaque buildup (buildup of cholesterol and other harmful substances) in the arteries, heightening the likelihood of heart attacks and stroke.

The goal of screening you for Lp-A is early detection of potential cardiovascular (heart or blood vessel-related) problems. Many people do not show any symptoms of high Lp-A. Lp-A levels are largely driven by genes that can be passed down through families. This means you could have a high Lp-A even if you have a healthy lifestyle. So, your doctor may ask to perform a Lipoprotein A test especially if you have a family history of cardiovascular diseases or if you are at risk of developing the same.

A Lipoprotein A test is also recommended if you have previously had a heart attack or stroke, or if cholesterol or LDL levels are highly elevated. The test may also be performed if your doctor suspects you of having familial hypercholesterolemia, a hereditary disorder causing high levels of “bad” or LDL cholesterol. It should be noted that Lp-A testing is not a routine cholesterol test, and it is usually performed if you have already been identified to be at higher risk of cardiovascular problems.

No special preparation is needed before undergoing a Lipoprotein A. Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results of this test can guide your doctor to formulate an individualized treatment plan to reduce the risk of potential cardiovascular disease and improve overall health.

What is Lipoprotein A used for?

A Lipoprotein A test is done:

To identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular problems if there is a family history of high Lp-A, heart attack, or stroke.
To assess an individual's risk of developing cardiovascular events such as stroke, coronary artery disease (CAD), or aortic stenosis.
In the case of familial hypercholesterolemia.
In case of recurrent cardiovascular events (like heart attacks and stroke) despite having controlled risk management.
To monitor the effectiveness of treatments in individuals already diagnosed with a heart condition.

What does Lipoprotein A measure?

A Lipoprotein A test measures the amount of lipoprotein A (Lp-A) particles in your blood. Lipoprotein A is a mixture of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and a protein called apolipoprotein A. Lp-A levels are largely determined by genetics. Lp-A levels are not significantly affected by diet, exercise, or lifestyle changes, unlike other types of cholesterol. That is why testing for Lp-A is essential, particularly for individuals with a strong family history of cardiovascular (heart or blood vessel) disease. This test can help identify individuals who are at high risk, enabling early intervention to prevent future complications.

Interpreting Lipoprotein A results

Interpretations

This test helps to determine the risk of heart disease in patients with a family history of premature CHD or Stroke, Hypertension, Cigarette smoking, Obesity, Diabetes mellitus, increased LDL and decreased HDL levels.
High levels of Lp(a) increase the risk of heart disease by 2-3 times of normal.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lipoprotein A

Frequently Asked Questions about Lipoprotein A

Q. Why do I need a Lipoprotein A test?

You may need a Lipoprotein A test if you have a family history of cardiovascular disease if you have heart disease despite having normal cholesterol test results, or if you have high cholesterol (especially LDL or bad cholesterol) despite taking a heart-healthy diet.

Q. How does Lp-A differ from LDL?

While both Lp-A and LDL are types of cholesterol and contribute to the buildup of plaques in arteries, Lp-a comprises LDL along with an additional protein called apolipoprotein (a), which potentially makes it more damaging to your arteries and therefore can be an individual contributor to cardiovascular problems.

Q. How does high Lp-A affect my health?

High Lp-A promotes clotting and inflammation, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, aortic stenosis, and peripheral artery disease.

Q. My family member has high Lp-A, should I get tested for the Lipoprotein A test?

Yes, if you have a known family history of high Lp-A, talk to your doctor about getting the Lipoprotein A test done.

Q. What is the major difference between heart attack and stroke?

A heart attack happens when a blockage restricts the blood flow to the heart, while a stroke occurs when there is a blockage or a burst blood vessel that affects blood flow to the brain. Both these conditions are serious and need immediate medical help.

Q. What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque (buildup of cholesterol, and other substances) inside the arteries, which can cause heart attack or stroke.

Q. What is familial hypercholesterolemia?

Familial hypercholesterolemia is an inherited condition that leads to significantly high LDL (bad cholesterol) levels. The condition usually begins at birth and can cause heart attacks at an early age.

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