Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation required
- Turnaround: 2-4 business days. May take longer due to weather, holidays, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures the level of lipoprotein (a), also known as Lp(a), in your blood. Lipoprotein (a) is a cholesterol particle similar in structure to LDL ("bad cholesterol"), but it can also contribute to blood clot formation. This is a quantitative blood test that reports your specific Lp(a) concentration.
The result reflects the amount of lipoprotein (a) circulating in your blood at the time of collection. Certain substances, including alcohol, aspirin, niacin, and estrogen supplements, have the potential to affect the accuracy of your Lp(a) result.
Benefits
- Measures your specific lipoprotein (a) level in blood
- Offers insight into a factor linked to cardiovascular risk
- Simple blood draw with no special preparation needed
- Provides a clear, quantitative result for your records
- Supports informed conversations with your healthcare provider
Who Is This Test For?
- People with a family history of heart disease
- People with a personal history of heart disease
- Those with high LDL (bad) cholesterol levels
- Individuals managing diabetes or high blood pressure
- People who smoke or have a sedentary lifestyle
- Women who have undergone menopause
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test, and what does it measure?
This test measures the concentration of lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), in your blood as a quantitative result. Lp(a) is a cholesterol particle structurally similar to LDL ("bad cholesterol"), but distinct from it, and can contribute to plaque buildup and blood clot formation. Because of this, Lp(a) is relevant to evaluating one factor in your cardiovascular risk profile, alongside other clinical information.
2. Who is this test for, and when should I consider ordering it?
This test may be considered by people with a family or personal history of heart disease, those with high LDL cholesterol, diabetes, or high blood pressure, individuals who smoke or lead a sedentary lifestyle, and women who have undergone menopause. It's often considered as part of evaluating cardiovascular risk factors, particularly for those with a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease. A healthcare provider can help determine whether this test fits your specific situation.
3. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required for this test. However, intake of alcohol, aspirin, niacin, and estrogen supplements may cause a misrepresentation of true Lp(a) concentrations.
4. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 2 to 4 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holidays, or lab delays.
5. How do I interpret my results?
The meaning of your Lp(a) result depends on your individual health history, other cardiovascular risk factors, medications, supplements, and other laboratory results. A single result should be considered alongside your broader clinical picture rather than on its own. Discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider for proper interpretation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
6. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Review results that fall outside the expected range with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing is appropriate based on your overall health picture.
7. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider, based on your individual risk factors and health history.
Pre-test preparation
No special preparation is required. Intake of alcohol, aspirin, niacin, and estrogen supplements have the potential of causing a misrepresentation of true Lp(a) concentrations.
