Lp(a) Test – Lipoprotein(a)
The Lp(a) test is one of the advanced diagnostic tests that make up our Cardiac Risk Assessment panel. These tests are an important part of our overall preventive cardiology approach. High levels of Lp(a) in the blood are linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.
What is Lp(a)?
Lp(a) is a lipoprotein; it is also known as lipoprotein(a). The term “lipoprotein” simply refers to a molecule containing a lipid (fat) and a protein. Lipoproteins serve to transport lipids from one part of the body to another through the blood. HDL and LDL, which most people know as “good and bad cholesterol,” are not actually cholesterol – they are lipoproteins that transport cholesterol. Lp(a) consists of a small LDL particle attached to a protein called apo(a).
How is the Lp(a) test performed?
The Lp(a) test requires a simple blood draw, which is performed in Dr. Bereliani’s Beverly Hills office; the blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. Dr. Bereliani will then go over the test results with you.
What happens if you have high blood levels of Lp(a)?
If your Lp(a) test indicates you have a high blood level of lipoprotein(a), you may be at higher risk of atherosclerosis, and consequently heart attack and stroke. This is particularly true if you also have a high LDL level. People with high Lp(a) are also more likely to have certain kinds of kidney disease.
What causes elevated Lp(a)?
We aren’t sure of the exact causes, but we know that genetics plays a major role. There is no evidence that diet is a cause.
But my LDL level is normal. Does a high Lp(a) level still matter in that case?
Yes! Although the combination of high Lp(a) AND high LDL translates into a very high risk for atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease, people with a normal LDL level but elevated Lp(a) level may still have a 3-5 times greater risk of heart attack than those with normal Lp(a) levels!
Why is knowing your Lp(a) an important component of preventive cardiology?
In his extensive experience as a Los Angeles cardiologist, Dr. Bereliani has seen many patients who have come to him as a result of a recent heart attack; these patients were shocked because their total cholesterol and LDL levels were in the normal range. When he ran a Cardiac Risk Assessment panel, they frequently showed abnormal levels of Lp(a). If the same patients had come to Dr. Bereliani earlier – before they had symptoms – maybe their heart attack could have been prevented! This is yet another example of why Dr. Bereliani is so passionate about the concept of preventive cardiology.
Lowering Lp(a): Treatment Strategy
To lower your Lp(a), treatment consists of using niacin, which is actually a kind of B vitamin (niacin is also known Vitamin B3). In fact, niacin has been the only treatment clinically proven to decrease lipoprotein (a) levels. Dr. Bereliani will follow your treatment progress by ordering Lp(a) tests at regular intervals to ensure the treatment is effective.
How do I find out more information about the Lp(a) test?
Call the Beverly Hills Institute for Preventive Medicine and Cardiology at 310-550-8000 or click here to make an appointment. Our friendly, helpful staff will be glad to schedule a consultation for you with Dr. Bereliani, and to answer any questions you might have – about the Lp(a) test or anything else! See how our unique approach can help you. Our patients will tell you we are the premier preventive cardiology practice in Beverly Hills. Our location is convenient to all of greater Los Angeles.