What to Know About Lp(a) Testing and Heart Health
A lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), test measures the level of a cholesterol-related particle in the blood that can contribute to cardiovascular risk. Unlike many other cholesterol measurements, Lp(a) levels are largely determined by genetics. Testing can help identify an inherited risk factor that may not be apparent from a routine cholesterol panel, allowing healthcare professionals to assess a person's overall heart health more completely. What Is an Lp(a) Test? The lab test lpa measures lipoprotein(a), a particle that carries cholesterol and contains a protein called apolipoprotein(a). Although it shares similarities with LDL cholesterol, Lp(a) has distinct properties and is considered an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of conditions such as coronary artery disease and aortic valve stenosis. However, an elevated result does not mean that someone will inevitably develop heart disease. A standard lipid panel typically measure...