Heart & lipids
Lipoprotein(a)
Also known as: Lp(a), lp-a
What it is
Lipoprotein(a) is an LDL-like particle with an extra protein attached. Levels are mostly genetically determined and stay fairly stable through life, so it is often a one-off “good to know” measurement.
Why it matters
Elevated Lp(a) is associated with higher cardiovascular risk independently of LDL cholesterol, which is why it is used to refine risk - especially with a family history of early heart disease.
What “optimal” looks like
Lower is generally considered better. Because it is largely inherited, an elevated result is information about baseline risk that your clinician factors into overall management.
This is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Related
See your own Lipoprotein(a)
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