Lipoprotein(a) Blood Test
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Test Code: 120188
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Order a Lipoprotein (a) Blood Test
A simple blood test that could reveal a major genetic risk for heart disease
- Assess inherited risk for cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke.
- High Lp (a) can be a risk to your health even when cholesterol levels are normal.
- Anyone with a family history of heart disease should check their Lp (a) level at least once.
What is a Lipoprotein (a) Test?
Most people know their cholesterol levels, but far fewer know their lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). That’s a problem, because elevated Lp(a) is a genetic risk factor for heart attack and stroke that isn’t included in a standard lipid panel. Lp(a) is a cholesterol-carrying particle that can increase the risk for cardiovascular disease enem when standard cholesterol levels are normal. Lipoprotein-a has a similar structure to LDL (the bad cholesterol). A person's Lp(a) level is not affected by lifestyle changes and most medications. A person with elevated Lp (a) levels is usually advised to take extra care in managing other more controllable risk factors for heart disease.
New medical guidance now recommends that all adults test their Lp(a) at least once in their lifetime. If you’ve never had it checked, this test can give you critical insight into your long-term cardiovascular risk.
Order your Lipoprotein(a) test online today—no doctor’s visit required.
What causes high Lipoprotein a?
About 20-30% of people have elevated levels of Lp(a). High lipoprotein A is usually inherited from at least one parent. Factors such as race, diet, and some medications can also contribute to Lp(a) levels.
Who Should Get Tested for Lipoprotein a?
An Lp(a) blood test is usually ordered when someone has a family history of heart disease or has been diagnosed with conditions that are linked to high Lp (a) levels. These conditions can include estrogen depletion, hypothyroidism, uncontrolled diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, or kidney failure. An Lp (a) test is often ordered with other tests that look for heart disease risk factors, such as a C-Reactive Protein High Sensitivity or Homocysteine test.
How long does a Lipoprotein A test take?
Turnaround time for the Lipoprotein-a test is typically 2-5 business days.
Where can I find a Lipoprotein(a) test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Requirements:
Intake of alcohol, aspirin, niacin and estrogen supplements have the potential of causing a misrepresentation of true LP (a) concentrations.
The Lipoprotein (a) test has no fasting requirements.
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