Skip to content

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of lipoprotein(a) in your blood, a type of cholesterol-like particle that may increase your risk of heart disease and blood clots.

Quick summary

["Lipoprotein(a) levels help assess cardiovascular risk beyond traditional cholesterol measures."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110726-7
Short code
L tropica IgG Msmt Ser
Synonyms
L tropica IgG Msmt Ser
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). Unlike other cholesterol particles, Lp(a) is strongly linked to higher risks of artery-clogging plaques and blood clots, even in people with normal cholesterol levels.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have a family history of early heart disease, unexplained blood clots, or conditions like aortic valve disease. It’s also used to monitor risk in people with known cardiovascular concerns.

How Is the Test Done?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure Lp(a) levels using a specialized immunoassay method.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL). Higher levels may indicate increased cardiovascular risk, but individual interpretation depends on your overall health profile.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lp(a) Level

Frequently asked questions

Why did my doctor suggest this test?
Your doctor may recommend it if you have a history of heart disease, blood clots, or a family history of early cardiovascular events. It helps assess risk beyond traditional cholesterol measures.
What does a high or low Lp(a) level mean?
High levels may increase your risk of heart disease or blood clots, but results alone don’t determine treatment. Your doctor will consider your overall health and other risk factors.
Can lifestyle changes affect Lp(a) levels?
While diet, exercise, and smoking cessation may influence other cholesterol types, Lp(a) levels are primarily genetic and less responsive to lifestyle changes than LDL or HDL cholesterol.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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