Lipoprotein(a), Serum
A blood test measuring lipoprotein(a), a genetically influenced particle that may increase the risk of plaque buildup and blood clots.
["An elevated lipoprotein(a) level can indicate increased cardiovascular risk, especially when cholesterol or other risk factors are also present."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100732-7
- Short code
- LPALD Ser
- Synonyms
- LPALD Ser
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 this test?
This test measures the concentration of lipoprotein(a), often called Lp(a), in your blood. Lp(a) is a cholesterol-carrying particle with a protein component called apolipoprotein(a). Its level is largely determined by genetics.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to help assess your long-term risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and blood clots. It may be especially useful when cholesterol levels or family history suggest cardiovascular risk but the overall risk picture remains unclear.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected through a vein in your arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses a specialized method to measure the amount of Lp(a) in the serum.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is usually not required for this test, although your clinician may give specific instructions if it is being checked along with other lipid tests. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to do so.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An elevated Lp(a) level may indicate increased risk of plaque buildup in the arteries and blood clot formation, particularly in someone with high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking exposure, or a family history of early heart disease. A high result does not mean that a heart attack or stroke is inevitable, but it may prompt closer risk-factor management. Lp(a) is mainly inherited and is generally less responsive to diet, exercise, or cholesterol-lowering medicines than other blood lipids.
Short name
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] test
Frequently asked questions
Is a high lipoprotein(a) level the same as high cholesterol?
Can diet or exercise lower lipoprotein(a)?
Does an elevated result mean I have a heart disease?
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