Lipoproteins: lipoprotein (a)

Clinical Chemistry

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Description

Lipoprotein(a), (Lp(a) or "lipoprotein little a"), is a modified atherogenic low-density lipoprotein particle that contains apolipoprotein(a). Its levels are highly heritable and variable in the population. Lp(a) is an independent cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor. https://www.atherosclerosis-journal.com/article/S0021-9150(19)31528-X/fulltext

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Indications

HEART UK recommends that Lp(a) is measured in adults as follows: 1) those with a personal or family history of premature atherosclerotic CVD; 2) those with first-degree relatives who have Lp(a) levels >200 nmol/L; 3) patients with familial hypercholesterolemia; 4) patients with calcific aortic valve stenosis and 5) those with borderline (but <15%) 10-year risk of a cardiovascular event. The management of patients with raised Lp(a) levels should include reducing overall atherosclerotic risk and controlling dyslipidaemia with a desirable non-HDL-cholesterol level of <2.5 mmol/L. This test is currently only available to STH patients attending either Lipid Clinic or ACS Clinic. For further information contact Dr Hannah Delaney, Clinical Chemistry

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Sample Type

Serum, SST/Gel, minimum 2ml (1ml separated serum)

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Reference Range

Reference ranges are provided on the report. Alternatively, please contact the laboratory for current ranges.

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Turnaround Time

Less than 72 hours

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Testing Frequency

Daily

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External Notes

Lipoprotein(a), Lp(a), is a modified atherogenic low-density lipoprotein particle that contains apolipoprotein(a). Its levels are highly heritable and variable in the population. Lp(a) is an independent cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor. https://www.atherosclerosis-journal.com/article/S0021-9150(19)31528-X/fulltext

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Patient Preparation

None necessary but the implications of a positive test result should be discussed with the patient before testing

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Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.