The Lipoprotein a (Lp-a) test is a blood test that measures the amount of Lp-a in a person’s blood. Lp-a is a type of lipoprotein that is made up of a protein called apolipoprotein(a) (apo(a)) and a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particle. High levels of Lp-a in the blood have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood. The Lp-a test may be ordered as part of a lipid panel or as a separate test, particularly in individuals who have a family history of heart disease or stroke, or who have other risk factors for these conditions. However, it is important to note that while Lp-a can be an important risk factor, it is not routinely measured in most standard lipid panels, and there is currently no specific treatment to lower Lp-a levels. Therefore, the Lp-a test is primarily used as an additional tool to help assess an individual’s overall cardiovascular risk.
