Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] concentration
This test measures the amount of lipoprotein(a) in your blood, a type of fat-protein particle that carries cholesterol. It may help assess your risk for heart disease.
["Lipoprotein(a) levels can provide insight into cardiovascular risk beyond standard cholesterol measures."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 62346-2
- Short code
- Chrom analy interphase pnl Amn FISH
- Synonyms
- Chrom analy interphase pnl Amn FISH
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- fish
- CPT
- 86038
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Lipoprotein(a)?
Lipoprotein(a) is a unique lipoprotein particle that combines cholesterol with a protein called apolipoprotein(a). While it shares some traits with cholesterol, it behaves differently in the body. High levels may increase your risk of clots and heart disease.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or blood clots, or if you have conditions like high cholesterol or peripheral artery disease. It can also be used to monitor treatment for certain genetic conditions.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure lipoprotein(a) levels precisely.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
Results are typically reported as a numerical value indicating the concentration of lipoprotein(a) in your blood. While there are no universally accepted reference ranges for everyone, high levels may signal increased cardiovascular risk.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lipoprotein(a) is considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including atherosclerosis and arterial thrombosis. It may contribute to plaque buildup in arteries and increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes, particularly in people with genetic predispositions or other risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Short name
Lp(a) Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes variations in lipoprotein(a) levels?
Can lifestyle changes affect lipoprotein(a) levels?
Is this test covered by insurance?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy