LP(a) or LPA cholesterol is a lipoprotein that has been linked to cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease and strokes. High levels in the blood are usually due to inheriting a gene mutation and are now considered to be an even more important risk factor than LDL cholesterol.
From a molecular structure perspective, Lp(a) cholesterol looks like LDL cholesterol with some key differences. LDL has a single apolipoprotein B attached on its surface. Lp(a), however, has an apolipoprotein B attached on its surface, and that apolipoprotein B has an apolipoprotein (a) attached to it. Lp(a) also contains oxidized phospholipids (OxPL). The apolipoprotein(a) part of Lipoprotein(a) looks like something called plasminogen. Plasminogen is an important protein we all have in our blood that protects us from uncontrolled clotting. While apolipoprotein(a) looks like plasminogen, it doesn’t act like plasminogen. It may actually compete with plasminogen. When apolipoprotein(a) binds to a clot, it can’t break it up. This is why it’s believed that elevated Lp(a) favours clotting.
Why is it Important?
Large-scale studies have shown that higher Lp(a) cholesterol levels can significantly increase the risk of serious cardiovascular and other health complications. Knowing your Lp(a) cholesterol can help you and your healthcare provider take action to reduce your risk of future health issues. At present, as there are limited pharmacological options for lowering LP (a), the general advice is to treat other risk factors such as raised LDL. If your blood test shows high Lp(a) choleterol and you select SCVC as your medical provider, you will be asked whether you would like to join the SCVC Lp(a) cholesterol registry and be notified of new developments.
How Does the Test Work?
Clinic testing only (ie Click&Collect) - you will need to attend your selected medical provider to have this blood test done. You will need to complete a medical questionnaire so that the medical team can advise of the results. If there is no medical provider shown on this site we will arrange for you to attend for the blood test to be taken within 20 miles of most UK locations, via a national phloebotomy service.
Please note: The medical opinion on your Lp(a) result will be more informative if Lp(a) is known alongside cholesterol blood test values - if you know your cholesterol levels, you can provide them on the Personal Health Profile form that we require, and if not, we recommend adding a cholesterol test to your basket too.
Take Control of Your Health
Prevention is better than cure. Knowing your Lp(a) cholesterol is an essential step to staying on top of your health. If your Lp(a) cholesterol is high, our specialist cardiac team will provide guidance and recommendations, saving the need for you to see a preventive speciliast.
Order today to get clear insights and potentially spot a major risk factor for heart disease.