Lp(A) Lipoprotein(A) Serum Test

Lipoproteins test is prescribed to understand how well the cholesterol is transported in the body. This gives a more detailed idea of the risk of heart diseases than the routine cholesterol screening and may help in early detection of potential cardiovascular problem. This may be done in cases of :

• Family history of early age heart diseases.
• LDL levels are found to be high despite medication
• Family history of hypercholesterolemia
• Blood vessel diseases with normal triglyceride and total cholesterol levels
• Self history of heart diseases with or without surgery. 

lipoproteins test measures the amount of lipoprotein (a) component in the blood. This is a predictor of the risk of heart diseases.

During Lipoproteins test blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a  little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

High lipoprotein (a) levels lead to cholesterol being deposited in the arterial walls which causes thickening or clogging of the arterial walls also known as "atherosclerosis". This disrupts the flow of blood to the heart and other vital organs. This increases the risk of heart diseases, strokes, and other peripheral arterial diseases. Lp (a) being a specific test gives a clearer picture of the risk of heart diseases as compared to routine cholesterol tests. Certain conditions may contribute to high lipoprotein levels such as uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disorders, hypothyroidism and certain hormonal disorders.

It is uncommon to assess cholesterol levels with the Lp(a) test. However, if the findings of additional blood tests indicate a higher risk of heart disease, your doctor may decide to perform this test. This test may also be prescribed by your physician if you -

• Have recently experienced a heart attack or stroke.
• Have a history of heart problems that began before the age of 55.
• Have an established heart problem or other peripheral arterial diseases.
• Are postmenopausal and have higher heart diseases risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or any other vascular disorders.

• Your doctor may prescribe this test if you exhibit certain symptoms. He may also prescribe this test if you have a medical condition that puts you at a greater risk of developing artery blockages, such as -

• Early heart or vascular illness in the family health history (before age 55 for males and before age 65 for females).
• Having high LDL cholesterol despite taking medication to decrease it.
• Heart disease or blood vessel disease, particularly if your cholesterol and triglyceride levels are normal without taking medication to lower them.
• Signs of familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition.
• Multiple heart attacks or multiple operations to unblock heart arteries that were obstructed or narrowed (angioplasty).

You must fast for 12 hours before the Lp(a) test to properly prepare. This implies that before the test, you cannot drink or eat anything other than water. You will also be requested to give up smoking 12 hours before the test if you smoke.

In addition to the Lp(A)Lipoprotein(A) Serum test, your doctor may prescribe other tests to check for HDL or LDL levels.

Lp(a) is also known as lipoprotein(a). It is a protein. It carries cholesterol throughout the body. Blood clots or plaques in the arteries are more likely to form when Lp(a) levels are high.

Protein loss, oedema, and increased blood cholesterol and lipoprotein levels are all symptoms of the kidney condition nephrotic syndrome

Lp (a) should not exceed 75 nmol/L or 30 mg/dL [15]. Most people (about 70%) fall within this range.

• Lp(a) Test
• Lipoprotein(a) Test