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1 Parameters Included

The Lipoprotein-A (Lpa) test measures the levels of lipoprotein(a), a type of cholesterol-like substance in the blood. Lipoprotein(a) is similar to low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as "bad cholesterol," but with a unique protein component called apolipoprotein(a) attached to it. High levels of Lpa are considered a risk factor for various cardiovascular conditions.

Why You Need It:

• Evaluate Cardiovascular Risk: Elevated Lipoprotein-A levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, including atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries), stroke, and heart attacks.
• Genetic Risk Factor: Lpa levels are largely determined by genetics and can remain elevated throughout a person's life, regardless of diet or lifestyle.
• Assess Risk in Family History: If you have a family history of early heart disease or strokes, measuring Lpa can help assess your risk, especially if traditional cholesterol levels (LDL, HDL) are normal.
• Monitor Treatment Progress: Some individuals with very high Lpa levels might need more intensive treatment for cardiovascular risk, so this test can help monitor how well those treatments are working.

How It Works:

Lipoprotein(a) is made up of LDL cholesterol attached to the protein apolipoprotein(a). It is thought to contribute to the formation of plaques in arteries (atherosclerosis) and may interfere with the body’s ability to break down blood clots. Elevated levels of Lpa in the blood can increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases, especially in people who already have other risk factors, such as high LDL cholesterol or a family history of heart disease.

Normal Range:

• Normal Lp(a) levels are generally considered to be below 30 mg/dL, though values can vary slightly depending on the laboratory.
• Elevated Lp(a) levels (typically greater than 30 mg/dL) can be associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, especially when combined with other risk factors like high cholesterol or high blood pressure.

Why It’s Done:

• To Assess Heart Disease Risk: The Lp(a) test is especially useful for assessing heart disease risk in people with a family history of early cardiovascular events or those with normal cholesterol levels but still experiencing heart issues.

• To Guide Cardiovascular Treatment: In some cases, elevated Lp(a) levels may prompt doctors to consider more aggressive measures for preventing cardiovascular disease, like medications that specifically target Lp(a) or lifestyle changes.

• To Evaluate Genetic Factors: Since Lipoprotein(a) levels are primarily genetically determined, this test can help determine whether high levels are a genetic risk factor in your family.

Key Points:

• Lipoprotein-A is considered a genetic risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is not affected by lifestyle factors such as diet or exercise.
• An elevated Lp(a) level is often associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
• This test is often used in individuals with a family history of cardiovascular issues or those who have unexplained heart disease despite having normal cholesterol levels.