Lipid Basic Panel (6)

Lipoprotein(a) is a compound consisting of a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particle bound to an apolipoprotein(a) molecule. When present at high levels, it serves as a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease, independent of LDL-cholesterol levels.

Your liver produces VLDL cholesterol and then releases it into the bloodstream. VLDL is “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque buildup in your arteries. Over time, the plaque hardens and narrows your arteries, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your body. It is why high VLDL cholesterol is a risk factor for vascular and heart diseases.

Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-1 ratio is an index reflecting the balance between atherogenic lipoprotein particles and anti-atherogenic lipoprotein particles. When this balance is disrupted, atherosclerosis progresses, leading to stroke. Additionally, the ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio is also a strong predictor of cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction, angina, and heart failure, compared to conventional lipid tests like total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, and HDL-cholesterol.

This test determines whether or not you have adequate apo A-I levels, diagnosing specific apo A deficiency and helping assess your risk of developing coronary heart disease.

Apolipoprotein B (or Apo B, for short) is a protein that helps carry fat and cholesterol through your body. Your body needs fat and cholesterol to produce hormones and keep cells healthy. As they don’t dissolve well in the blood, they may cause plaque buildup in your blood vessels, possibly leading to heart disease.