Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] concentration
This test measures the amount of lipoprotein(a) in your blood, a type of cholesterol-related protein linked to increased risk of heart disease and blood clots.
["Lipoprotein(a) levels help assess cardiovascular risk beyond traditional cholesterol measurements."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51000-8
- Short code
- L tropica IgG+IgM Ser-Imp
- Synonyms
- L tropica IgG+IgM Ser-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 cholesterol is well-known for heart health, lipoprotein(a) has its own distinct role. High levels may contribute to plaque buildup in arteries and increase the risk of serious conditions like heart attacks or strokes, even in people without high cholesterol.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or blood clots, or if you have conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease. It may also be used to monitor treatment for certain genetic or cardiovascular conditions.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure lipoprotein(a) concentration.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL). While there are no universally accepted reference ranges for lipoprotein(a), higher levels are generally associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Your results will be interpreted in the context of your overall health and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated lipoprotein(a) levels are an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), coronary artery disease, and peripheral artery disease. Some studies suggest it may also play a role in other conditions like venous thrombosis (blood clots in veins). While lifestyle changes and medications can help manage cholesterol, lipoprotein(a) remains a focus for personalized cardiovascular risk assessment, particularly in high-risk individuals.
Short name
Lipoprotein(a) Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What causes elevated lipoprotein(a) levels?
Can lifestyle changes lower lipoprotein(a) levels?
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