OVERVIEW
What is lipoprotein (A) lab test?
It is one of the lipoproteins which carries cholesterol in blood. It has LDL molecule (low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol) attached with protein ‘Apolipoprotein’. Hence since it consists of LDL, which is bad cholesterol, high Lp (a) is termed as a risk factor of CVD (cardio-vascular disease). This test helps measure the lipoprotein A level in blood and evaluate risk for having CVD.
Why is lipoprotein A lab test done?
The test is done:
- As its amount is decided by genes that you inherit and stays constant for lifetime. So, its level only increases in individuals who have overall risk of developing CVD.
- As this test serves as a useful cardiovascular risk marker
- As it aids in checking for heart attack, stroke, & other diseases.
- When you have risk factors like family history of heart disease and not done as a routine test.
- When you have high cholesterol even though you have healthy diet.
- What is best treatment for high lipoprotein A?
Its best treatment will be to reduce cholesterol burden via statin use which will shrink the particle Lp (a) in size.
- What is normal Lp (a) level?
It is less than 30 milligrams per deciliter. In many individuals there is no detectable level of Lp (a) present.
- What serves as risk for high Lp (A)?
Genetics, increase intake of fats, and certain medical conditions increase the risk of high lipoprotein A.
- Can Lp (a) levels be lowered?
Mostly the Lp (a) is dictated via genes entirely that you inherit. So, there is no evidence that it can lowered.
- Is vitamin C helpful for lipoprotein A?
Vitamin C supplementation can be good for lowering LDL cholesterol.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULTS:
- < or = 30 mg/dL: This suggests normal lipoprotein A level.
- > 30 mg/dL: This indicates 2 to 3 fold increased risk for cardiovascular events.
You get tested for determining and evaluating risk of developing cardiovascular diseases in individuals with conventional heart disease risk factors.