Learning Center › Topic 3 of 6
Lipoprotein(a): the inherited cholesterol marker
Lp(a), said “L-P-little-a,” is an LDL-like particle with an extra protein tail. Your level is mostly set by your genes, which is why many experts suggest measuring it at least once.
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Text description of this 3D model
A single round lipoprotein particle, cut away in one corner to show a gold cholesterol-rich core inside a shell of small pale beads. A teal band (ApoB) wraps around the particle. In the Lp(a) view, a pink chain (apo(a)) with a row of small loops called kringles extends out from the ApoB band, attached by a small bright link.
An LDL particle: a cholesterol-rich core (gold, shown through a cut-away), an outer shell, and one ApoB protein (teal) wrapped around it.
Lp(a) is the same kind of particle with an extra protein, apo(a) (pink), linked to ApoB. Apo(a) has repeating loop-shaped regions called kringles. How many you have is inherited and varies from person to person.
What to know
- Lp(a) levels are largely determined by your genes and tend to stay fairly stable through adult life.
- Diet and exercise, which can lower LDL-C, usually have little effect on Lp(a).
- Elevated Lp(a) is associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and aortic valve stenosis.
- The National Lipid Association (2024) recommends measuring Lp(a) at least once in adults. Because it's inherited, a result can also be relevant for close family members.
- Results may be reported in nmol/L or mg/dL. These units can't be converted directly, so ask how your lab reports it.
- A standard cholesterol panel does not include Lp(a). It has to be ordered specifically.
What this test can do
- Identify an inherited cardiovascular risk factor
- Inform your clinician's overall risk assessment
- Prompt conversations about family testing
What it can't do on its own
- Diagnose heart disease
- Show up on a standard lipid panel
- Usually be changed much by diet or exercise
Questions to bring to your clinician
- “Has my Lp(a) ever been measured?”
- “If my Lp(a) is elevated, how does that change my overall plan?”
- “Should my family members consider testing?”
Want to Explore Your Cholesterol-Related Risk Markers?
Two A-List panels measure Lp(a): the ApoB + Lp(a) Duo, and the Complete Heart Check + Lp(a), which also includes a lipid panel, hs-CRP and more (but not ApoB).
“Book This Panel” opens the secure Stan Store checkout for the Hidden Heart Risk Duo: ApoB + Lp(a) ($179), where you choose your appointment time and review the total before paying.
Panels that include this test
- Hidden Heart Risk Duo: ApoB + Lp(a)$179
- Complete Heart Check + Lp(a)$339
Every listed panel price includes the required lab order, standard mobile blood collection, collection supplies, and laboratory testing/processing. Only optional upgrades you select (such as the $60 Vein Finder) cost extra. You'll review your selections and final total in Stan Store before paying.
Understand Your Heart Numbers. Keep the Free Guide.
Get our free Heart Numbers Guide, including explanations of common cholesterol-related markers, a tracker for your results, and questions to discuss with your healthcare provider.
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Educational only. This page explains what a test measures. It does not interpret individual results, diagnose a condition, or recommend treatment. A qualified healthcare professional can help decide which tests make sense for you and what your results mean. Do not change medicines or preparation instructions based on this page.
Sources: AHA: Lipoprotein(a) · National Lipid Association 2024 Lp(a) focused update · ACC: Lipoprotein(a) and cardiovascular risk