Lipoprotein (a) Blood Test

What is a Lipoprotein (a) Blood Test

A Lipoprotein (a) blood test, also known as an Lp-a test, measures the amount of a special fat called lipoprotein (a) in your blood. Lipoprotein (a), or Lp-a, is a type of particle made up of both fat and protein that is found in your bloodstream and is believed to play a role in coronary arterial disease. High levels of Lp-a have been linked to an increased risk of coronary artery disease.

Preparation

No special preparation is needed – the blood test can be done at any time.

Procedure

The blood test is performed by taking a sample of blood and measuring the levels of lipoprotein (a) in the blood. Depending on the laboratory, the test may also measure other types of lipoprotein and cholesterol.

Types of Lipoprotein (a)

Lipoproteins are divided into two categories: high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) and low-density lipoproteins (LDLs). HDLs are also known as “good” cholesterol, because they remove fatty deposits from artery walls, preventing fatty buildup and reducing the risk of heart disease. LDLs, on the other hand, are known as “bad” cholesterol, because they can deposit fatty deposits on artery walls, causing them to become clogged and leading to a number of health problems.

Risks

High levels of Lp-a have been linked to an increased risk of coronary artery disease and stroke. Lp-a levels can also be affected by age, gender, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and other medical conditions. Because of this, it is important to speak to your doctor about any risk factors that may be contributing to your Lp-a levels.

Why is the Test Done?

The test is generally done to look for signs of risk factors associated with coronary artery disease and to monitor those already at risk. It may also be done to check for genetic conditions that can cause elevated Lp-a levels, such as familial hyperlipoproteinemia.

When is the Test Done?

The test is typically done when a person is showing signs of an increased risk of coronary artery disease, such as having a family history of cardiovascular problems, being older than 45 years old, or having diabetes or high cholesterol. The test can also be used to monitor those already at risk, or as part of routine health screenings.