Biomarker · Cardiovascular
Lipoprotein(a) — Lp(a)
Lipoprotein(a) is a largely inherited cholesterol particle linked to cardiovascular risk. Learn what an Lp(a) test measures and why a one-time check is recommended.
Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated
Overview
Lipoprotein(a), often written Lp(a), is an LDL-like particle with an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a) attached. Blood levels are mostly determined by genetics and stay relatively stable throughout adult life.
Why it matters
High Lp(a) is associated with a higher risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and aortic valve stenosis. The 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines recommend that Lp(a) be measured at least once in each adult's lifetime to identify people with very high inherited levels.
What it measures
The test measures the concentration of Lp(a) particles, reported either in mg/dL or nmol/L. The two units cannot be converted precisely, so compare results in the same unit.
Higher results
Because Lp(a) is largely inherited, a high result may be relevant to close relatives. Lifestyle changes have little effect on Lp(a) itself, but clinicians often use a high value as a reason to manage other risk factors more carefully.
How the test is performed
A standard blood sample. Because levels are stable, repeat testing is usually not needed unless your clinician advises it.
Reference ranges
| ESC/EAS 2019: very high inherited level | > 180 mg/dL (> 430 nmol/L) |
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Reference ranges and targets differ between laboratories, units and guidelines, and depend on age, sex, method and your overall clinical picture. A single result is not a diagnosis — interpret it with a qualified clinician.
Factors that can affect the result
- Genetics (dominant factor)
- Kidney disease
- Menopause and hormonal changes
- Some medications
Questions people commonly ask
- How often should Lp(a) be tested?
- European guidelines recommend at least once in adulthood. Further tests depend on your clinician's advice.
- Can diet lower Lp(a)?
- Lp(a) is mainly genetically determined and responds little to diet or exercise. Discuss options with your doctor.
Related biomarkers
Related tests
Related topics
Understand your biomarkers in context
What does this mean for your own health data? Log your results, follow trends over time and bring an organised summary to your next doctor's appointment.
Sources
- 2019 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias: lipid modification to reduce cardiovascular risk. European Society of Cardiology / European Atherosclerosis Society (Mach F et al.), Eur Heart J, 2020.