Mike asked
Can you get a lipoprotein A blood test and what exactly are you looking for?
Answer
There is a blood test for lipoprotein A, also called Lp(a). Lipoprotein A is a subtype of LDL (i.e. "bad") cholesterol and can be used to help determine your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
What Is Lipoprotein A?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in the cells in your body. Cholesterol is vitally important to proper functioning of the body as cholesterol is a component of hormones, vitamin D, and a variety of other substances.
The 2 main types of cholesterol are:
- High-density lipoproteins (HDL
- Low-density lipoproteins (LDL)
HDL is considered “good” cholesterol, whereas LDL is considered “bad” cholesterol. High levels of LDL can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in your arteries. Lipoprotein A, or Lp(a), is a type of LDL.
Although LDL is generally affected by exercise, diet, and family history, Lp(a) levels are typically determined by genetics and the levels of Lp(a) typically remain fairly consistent throughout your life.
Common blood tests to check your cholesterol include total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. The Lp(a) test is not part of the standard panel used to evaluate cholesterol levels, however your doctor may consider a Lp(a) blood test if you have certain risk factors such as:
- Coronary heart disease (CHD)
- Family history of CHD before the age of 55
- You have high cholesterol that is not responding to cholesterol-lowing drug treatment
High levels of Lp(a) increases your risk for atherosclerosis (build-up of fatty deposits in the walls of your arteries). It can also increase your risk of coronary heart disease or heart attack, blood clots, and stroke.
Summary
- High Lp(a) (lipoprotein A) blood levels can be a risk factor for heart disease, heart attack and stroke.
- A Lp(a) blood test is not part of the standard blood panel to evaluate cholesterol. Your doctor may consider a Lp(a) blood test based certain risk factors.
