Lipoprotein “little a” — Lp(a)
Lp(a) is a protein which is found attached to some LDL-C particles. As the Lp(a)—LDL-C complex flows in the blood the Lp(a) strand grabs oxidised lipid particles and holds on to them — this tangled mess can penetrate an artery wall and is more prone to getting trapped than a normal LDL-C particle. The array of other oxidised lipid particles which Lp(a) has collected contribute to accelerated plaque formation. Lp(a) also acts as a clotting factor, further speeding plaque progression and increasing heart attack risk. Lp(a) levels are elevated in 25% to 35% of people depending on the population and are not caused by poor diet, lack of exercise or obesity — they are genetically inherited. Presently only one type of drug, a PCSK9 inhibitor, can lower Lp(a) levels but others are in development. However there is evidence that dramatically lowering ApoB levels with conventional treatments in patients with elevated Lp(a) still lowers their cardiovascular risk.
Lp(a) less than 30 mg/dL (< 75 nmol/L) is normal. More than 50 mg/dL (> 125 nmol/L) indicates an elevated risk.
Cost
Between $400 and $500 TTD