Lipoprotein A (Lp A), Serum in Chennai

Included Tests

Lipoprotein A (Lp A), Serum test measures Lipoprotein(a), a cholesterol-related particle that helps assess inherited cardiovascular risk.

Details

Know More About This Test

The Lipoprotein A (Lp A), Serum test measures the level of lipoprotein(a) in the blood. Lipoprotein(a), also called Lp(a), is a cholesterol-related particle that can increase the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Unlike routine cholesterol values, Lp(a) is largely influenced by genetics and may stay elevated even in people with otherwise normal lipid levels.

Why Is This Test Recommended?

This test may be recommended to:

• assess inherited cardiovascular risk
• evaluate people with a family history of early heart disease or stroke
• investigate cardiovascular disease despite normal routine lipid values
• support risk assessment in patients with high cholesterol or recurrent heart problems
• help guide further preventive care in high-risk individuals

What Do the Results Indicate?

• High Lp(a): may suggest increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, or blocked arteries
• Normal Lp(a): suggests lower inherited risk from this marker, though other heart risk factors still matter

Results should always be interpreted along with lipid profile, symptoms, family history, and medical advice.

How Is the Test Performed and Prepared For?

A blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm. Fasting for 10–12 hours may be preferred, especially if this test is done along with other lipid tests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Lp(a)? Lp(a) is a cholesterol-related particle in the blood that can increase the risk of heart and blood vessel disease.
2. Is this the same as a regular cholesterol test? No. It is different from total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, and gives additional information about inherited heart risk.
3. Do I need fasting? Fasting may be preferred, especially when combined with a lipid profile.
4. Who should get this test? People with a strong family history of heart disease, stroke, or unexplained high cardiovascular risk may benefit from this test.
5. Can high Lp(a) be genetic? Yes. Lp(a) levels are mainly inherited and often run in families.