Lipoprotein A | Laboratory research

General Information

Lipoprotein-a is a dimer formed by apolipoprotein A, which is linked to the LDL molecule by a disulfide bond. The formation of this complex takes place in the liver. Apolipoprotein a is a protein whose structure is very similar to plasminogen.

It can participate in the process of fibrinolysis.

The way of its metabolism is not fully clarified, however, lipoprotein a is an independent risk factor for developing coronary heart disease and cerebral infarction.

Serum lipoprotein-a concentration is largely determined by genetic factors and is unfortunately not affected by lipid-lowering treatment or diet. Its high level in the serum allows identification of high-risk patients.

When is the survey conducted?

• Patients with the beginning of the atherosclerotic process
• Patients with a family history of coronary disease
• People with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and at least 2 risk factors for cardiovascular disease
• Patients at risk of restenosis (recurrent stenosis) - who have undergone angioplasty and have high levels of lipoprotein-a,

Preparation of the patient: The study is conducted on an empty stomach

Material for examination: Venous blood

Referral norm:  < 50 mg/dl

Interpretation of results

Serum lipoprotein a concentration >30 mg/dL is a risk factor for the onset of the atherogenic process.

The concentration of lipoprotein-a in the blood increases in the following pathologies:

• Nephrotic syndrome
• Uremia in dialysis patients
• uncontrolled diabetes
• Hypothyroidism

The concentration of lipoprotein-a in the blood decreases:

• in hyperthyroidism
• When taking estrogens, niacin, neomycin group drugs

Lipoprotein a determination is not a screening test and its performance in the healthy population is not recommended.