What does the Lipoprotein(a) test measure?

Why is Lipoprotein(a) measured?

Elevated Lp(a) is a causal, independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, calcific aortic stenosis, and venous thromboembolism. It enhances foam-cell formation, impairs fibrinolysis, and promotes vascular inflammation. Measurement is recommended in patients with premature coronary disease, recurrent events despite optimal LDL lowering, strong family history, or intermediate risk by traditional calculators. Because it is genetically determined, one lifetime measurement suffices unless treatment targets emerge.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

Approximately <30 mg/dL or <75 nmol/L; reference intervals are laboratory- and method-dependent, and Lp(a) is highly genetically determined.

Functional medicine optimal

Epidemiological data support a threshold of <30 mg/dL (<75 nmol/L) for lower risk, though risk rises continuously and no true 'safe' level exists; very high values (>180 nmol/L or roughly >70 mg/dL, depending on assay) confer markedly elevated risk.

Units

mg/dL, nmol/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.