Ordering the Apolipoprotein Evaluation
Apolipoprotein Evaluation helps measure specific proteins in your blood that carry cholesterol, giving a clearer picture of your risk for heart and blood vessel problems. This test looks at both Apolipoprotein A1 and Apolipoprotein B, which can show if your cholesterol is balanced or if there is a higher chance of plaque building up in your arteries. Interestingly, research shows that the Apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio can sometimes predict heart risk even when regular cholesterol numbers look normal.
Ordering this test can help you and your doctor make better choices about your heart care. When you order, you get:
- Detailed results for Apolipoprotein A1 and B, not just total cholesterol
- Early detection of hidden heart risk, even if your cholesterol seems fine
- Clearer guidance for starting or changing cholesterol-lowering plans
- Better tracking of how well your current treatment is working
- Personalized information to help lower your risk for heart attack or stroke
Who Might Benefit from Lipoprotein Protein Testing
People who have a family history of early heart disease, or who have been told their cholesterol is “borderline,” may want to know more about their heart risk. For example, someone who has a parent or sibling who had a heart attack before age 55 might want to check if their own cholesterol-carrying proteins are out of balance, even if their regular cholesterol test looks okay.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Someone with diabetes who wants to know if their risk for heart problems is higher than expected
- A person whose cholesterol numbers are normal but who has high blood pressure
- Someone starting a new cholesterol-lowering medicine and wants to see if it’s working
- A person with a strong family history of stroke or heart attack at a young age
- Someone with autoimmune conditions, like lupus, since these can affect cholesterol proteins in unexpected ways
This test gives you a more complete look at your risk for heart and blood vessel problems by measuring the proteins that carry cholesterol, not just the cholesterol itself. Delaying this test could mean missing early signs of risk that regular cholesterol tests do not show, making it harder to take steps that could help prevent future heart issues.
Preparing for Cholesterol Protein Analysis
Fasting is not required before this test, so you can eat and drink as usual before your blood draw. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you, as they may have specific recommendations based on your situation.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Apolipoprotein Evaluation
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Biomarker Means | Low and High Levels of This Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apolipoprotein A1 | Men: 110-180 Women: 120-205 |
Apolipoprotein A1 is the main protein in HDL, or “good” cholesterol, and helps remove cholesterol from your arteries. Higher levels are linked to lower risk of heart disease. |
High levels mean your body is likely removing cholesterol well, which is usually a good sign for your arteries.
Low levels mean your body may not be clearing cholesterol as well, which can raise your risk for heart problems. |
| Apolipoprotein B | 52-109 | Apolipoprotein B is found in LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, and shows how many particles are carrying cholesterol in your blood. High levels are linked to more plaque in arteries. |
High levels mean there are more cholesterol-carrying particles, which can increase the chance of artery blockage.
Low levels mean fewer cholesterol particles, which is usually better for your arteries. |
| Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio | 0.3-0.9 | This ratio compares the amount of “bad” cholesterol protein to “good” cholesterol protein. A higher ratio means more risk for heart and blood vessel problems. |
High levels mean your risk for heart disease is higher, even if your total cholesterol is normal.
Low levels mean your balance of cholesterol proteins is better, which lowers your risk. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Apolipoprotein Evaluation FAQ
Is there Apolipoprotein Evaluation testing near me?
You can find a nearby location for Apolipoprotein Evaluation using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options for added convenience. This is especially helpful if you need regular monitoring for heart risk and want a site that makes blood draws quick and easy.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for Apolipoprotein Evaluation covers everything, including the blood draw at a patient service center. Ordering this test is worth it if you want a more detailed look at your cholesterol risk, especially if your regular cholesterol numbers don’t tell the full story.
How often should I retest?
Most people retest every 6 to 12 months, especially if they are starting or changing cholesterol-lowering treatment or have a family history of heart disease. Regular retesting helps track changes in your cholesterol proteins and shows if your treatment plan is working as expected.
How accurate is the test?
Apolipoprotein Evaluation uses immunoturbidimetric analysis, which measures protein levels in your blood with high precision; specificity is 98% and sensitivity is 97%. All tests at TrueHealthLabs.com are performed by CLIA-certified labs, meeting strict quality and precision standards.
Important Notes
- This test cannot be collected in NY, NJ, MA, and RI. Contact us with questions.
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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