Lp(a)
A genetically determined lipoprotein particle linked to cardiovascular risk that most cholesterol panels never test.
What is it
Lipoprotein(a) is a particle similar to LDL but with an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). Its levels are largely set by genetics and remain relatively stable across a lifetime.
Despite being a well-studied cardiovascular risk marker, Lp(a) is not part of the standard cholesterol panel — most people have never had it measured.
Why it's measured
Elevated Lp(a) has been associated with increased cardiovascular risk in published research, independent of LDL cholesterol levels. Because it is genetically determined, knowing your Lp(a) once provides lasting information.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
< 30 mg/dL
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
Where does your number land?
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Drag to your own Lipoprotein (a) — Lp(a) result.
Educational only, not a diagnosis. Ranges vary by laboratory. See which panel includes Lipoprotein (a) — Lp(a).
What results may indicate
Elevated
Has been associated with elevated cardiovascular risk in published research, even when standard cholesterol values appear normal.
Lower
Is generally considered favorable in research literature on cardiovascular risk.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Lp(a) is most often tested once in adulthood, since values are largely determined by genetics. Discuss with your physician based on family history and personal risk profile.
Related markers
Common questions
Lipoprotein(a) is a particle similar to LDL but with an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). Its levels are largely set by genetics and remain relatively stable across a lifetime.Despite being a well-studied cardiovascular risk marker, Lp(a) is not part of the standard cholesterol panel \u2014 most people have never had it measured.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. Lipoprotein (a) \u2014 Lp(a) is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
Lipoprotein (a) \u2014 Lp(a) is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Find the right panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.
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