LIPOPROTEIN A (LP A)

LIPOPROTEIN A (LP A)

The Lp(a) test is used to identify an elevated level of lipoprotein (a) as a possible risk factor in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The test may be used in conjunction with a routine lipid profile to provide additional information about a person's risk for CVD.The Lp(a) level is genetically determined and remains relatively constant over an individual's lifetime. Since it is usually not affected by lifestyle changes or by most drugs, it is not the target of therapy. Instead, when Lp(a) is high, the presence of this added risk factor may suggest the need for more aggressive treatment of other, more treatable risk factors such as an elevated low-density
lipoprotein (LDL).

^Increased levels:
* Premature CHD
* Stenosis of cerebral arteries
* Uncontrolled Diabetes
* Chronic Renal failure
* Nephrotic syndrome