Lipoprotein (a)
CPT Code(s):
83695
Turnaround Time:
8 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Citrate, Fluoride,Sodium Heparin, or EDTA plasma specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
8 hours
Refrigerated:
14 days
Frozen:
6 months
Clinical Significance
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a unique lipoprotein particle composed of an LDL cholesterol-like core and an apolipoprotein(a) molecule attached to it. The clinical significance and diagnostic implications of Lp(a) include:
Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Lp(a) is a recognized independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary artery disease. Elevated Lp(a) levels are associated with an increased risk of developing atherosclerosis and related complications, making it a valuable marker for assessing an individual's susceptibility to cardiovascular events.
Hereditary Risk Factor: Lp(a) levels are influenced by genetic factors, and individuals with a family history of high Lp(a) levels may be at an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Genetic predisposition contributes to elevated Lp(a) levels, highlighting the importance of assessing familial risk when considering cardiovascular risk management.
Enhanced Risk Prediction: Incorporating Lp(a) measurements into cardiovascular risk assessment models improves risk prediction accuracy. When used in conjunction with traditional risk factors, Lp(a) provides additional information that enhances our ability to identify individuals who may benefit from targeted interventions.
Potential Treatment Modifier: Elevated Lp(a) levels may impact the response to lipid-lowering therapies. Knowledge of Lp(a) status can guide treatment decisions, helping healthcare professionals tailor interventions to effectively reduce cardiovascular risk in high-risk individuals.
Atherothrombotic Risk: Lp(a) has been implicated in promoting atherothrombotic events by influencing clot formation and fibrinolysis. Elevated Lp(a) levels contribute to the formation of plaques and the progression of atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of adverse cardiovascular events.
Precision Medicine: Lp(a) measurements enable precision medicine approaches in cardiovascular care. Identifying individuals with high Lp(a) levels allows for the implementation of targeted interventions aimed at mitigating the specific risks associated with elevated Lp(a), improving patient outcomes.
Research and Therapeutic Development: Ongoing research into the mechanisms linking Lp(a) to cardiovascular diseases provides insights into potential therapeutic targets. Targeting Lp(a) in drug development holds promise for reducing cardiovascular risk in individuals with elevated levels.
In summary, Lp(a) is a clinically relevant biomarker that contributes to the assessment of cardiovascular risk. Its association with increased risk of atherosclerosis, its hereditary nature, and its potential impact on treatment response emphasize its importance in guiding personalized cardiovascular care. Incorporating Lp(a) measurements into clinical practice enhances risk prediction, informs tailored interventions, and supports ongoing research efforts to improve cardiovascular outcomes.