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