Lipoprotein (a) Test

Lipoprotein (a) is synthesized by the liver and is responsible for the initial onset of cardiovascular disease. It is generally found in the inner arterial lining leading to the accumulation of plaque and formation of atherosclerotic particles. This process occurs due to the initiation of foam cell accumulation which gradually leads to the formation of plaque in the coronary arteries. Lipoprotein (a) test is prescribed to analyze the probabilities of premature cardiovascular disease incidence.

Lipid profile under normal or slightly elevated values may have an underlying risk indicating the development of a cardiovascular condition which can be specifically determined by estimating the blood lipoprotein (a) value. The occurrence of lipoprotein (a) levels is a genetic cause which induces the onset of cardiovascular disease. The lifestyle of an individual in relation to cardiovascular disease is not an important factor for the increased lipoprotein (a) values. Lipoprotein (a) has structural similarity with blood clotting factors such as plasminogen which can lead to the formation of blood clots. Increased LDL values may associate with lipoprotein (a) in facilitating cardiovascular disease. The normal value of lipoprotein (a) is 30mg/dl. The test for lipoprotein is usually taken after 12 hours fasting.