Information about Lipoprotein (a)
What is lipoprotein (a)?
Lipoprotein (a) – or Lp (a) - is a type of lipoprotein that transports cholesterol in the blood. A lipoprotein (a) test measures blood levels of Lp (a) to evaluate heart disease risk.
Why test lipoprotein (a)?
Testing lipoprotein (a) is important for several reasons. It helps you discover risk factors for lifestyle diseases in time to take preventive action. If you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, especially at a young age, your risk of heart disease is increased. Additionally, if you have a history of heart attack or stroke, particularly when your lipid profile is normal or shows only slightly elevated cholesterol, testing for lipoprotein (a) can provide valuable insights into your cardiovascular health and help manage your risk more effectively.
What causes low lipoprotein (a)?
Lp (a) is genetically determined. There are no known problems caused by low Lp (a) and many people have no Lp (a) detectable in the blood. Lower Lp (a) is thought to decrease heart disease risk.
Symptoms of low lipoprotein (a)
Low lipoprotein (a) is generally considered beneficial and typically does not cause any symptoms or health problems. Low lipoprotein (a) is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attacks and strokes. Low lipoprotein (a) is usually not a cause for concern and there are no symptoms. If you have questions about your lipoprotein (a) levels or cardiovascular health, consult your healthcare provider.
What causes high lipoprotein (a)?
A high Lp (a) may increase a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease. It can occur in people even with a normal lipid profile. Lifestyle and dietary changes may help to lower other risk factors for heart disease. Although Lp (a) is genetically determined, some health conditions can increase Lp (a) and your doctor may wish to investigate these.
Symptoms of high lipoprotein (a)
Elevated lipoprotein (a) can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Elevated lipoprotein (a) is often associated with heart and vascular health symptoms. Common symptoms include chest pain, which may indicate angina or an increased risk of heart attack, shortness of breath, persistent fatigue, and high blood pressure. You might also experience heart palpitations, irregular or rapid heartbeats, and yellowish cholesterol deposits under the skin, known as xanthomas, often around the eyes or joints. Additionally, dizziness or lightheadedness can occur. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment, as high lipoprotein (a) levels can significantly increase the risk of heart disease.
More information
Lp (a) levels are genetically determined. Lp (a) is considered to contribute to the overall risk of cardiovascular disease.
About 50% of people who have a heart attack have a normal cholesterol level. Therefore, researchers have sought other ways to investigate heart attack risk and Lp (a) is one of them. Lp (a) is thought to contribute to heart attack risk by promoting the development of atherosclerotic plaque on the walls of blood vessels.
Preparation for this test
No advance preparation is needed for this test, but as it is often part of a lipid profile you may be advised to fast before taking it so read the instructions clearly when ordering a test.
On the day of the test
Always take ID with you when going to take a test.