Ordering the Lipoprotein (a) Test
Have you ever wondered about the hidden factors affecting your heart health? Lipoprotein (a) testing might be the key to unlocking those mysteries. This test measures the levels of a specific type of lipoprotein in your blood, which can influence your risk of heart disease. Interestingly, Lipoprotein (a) levels are largely determined by genetics, making it a unique marker in cardiovascular health.
- Helps assess the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Provides insight into genetic predispositions affecting heart health.
- Can guide lifestyle and dietary changes to improve heart health.
Who Should Consider This Test?
If you have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol, this test could be particularly beneficial. People with existing cardiovascular conditions or those who have had a heart attack at a young age might also find this test useful. It’s a proactive step towards understanding your heart health better.
Consider ordering this test if you:
- Have a family history of early heart disease.
- Experience high cholesterol levels despite a healthy lifestyle.
- Have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease at a young age.
- Are undergoing treatment for high cholesterol and want to monitor its effectiveness.
- Have a history of unexplained blood clots, which can be linked to high Lipoprotein (a) levels.
Preparing for Your Lipoprotein (a) Test
Getting ready for your Lipoprotein (a) test is simple. You don’t need to fast, so you can eat and drink as usual. However, it’s important to contact your treating physician for any special preparations. This ensures you get the most accurate results possible. If you are taking supplements or medications, follow the instructions provided by your doctor tailored to your specific health situation.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Lipoprotein (a) Test
| Test Name | Reference Ranges | Significance | Low and High Levels of Lipoprotein (a) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lipoprotein (a) | Less than 30 | Lipoprotein (a) is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood. High levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. | High: High levels of Lipoprotein (a) may indicate an increased risk of heart disease.
Low: Low levels of Lipoprotein (a) are generally considered normal and not associated with increased risk. |
Reference ranges can vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date reference ranges for this lab test, visit Quest Diagnostics.
Lipoprotein (a) FAQ
Is there Lipoprotein (a) testing near me?
You can find nearby draw locations for the Lipoprotein (a) test with our patient service center locator + mobile phlebotomy.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost of the Lipoprotein (a) test can be found at the top of the page. Pricing includes draw fees when visiting patient service centers.
How often should I retest?
It’s generally recommended to retest every 1 to 2 years, or as advised by your healthcare provider, to monitor any changes in your Lipoprotein (a) levels.
How accurate is the test?
TrueHealthLabs.com only partners with CLIA certified labs, ensuring that your Lipoprotein (a) test results are accurate and reliable.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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