Diagnosing High Lipoprotein(a)
It is recommended that every American adult get their lipoprotein(a), also known as Lp(a), tested at least once in their life.
While 1 in 5 people or 63 million people in the US have high Lp(a), it is missing from most standard lipid panels. That’s changing. Recently, there is a greater awareness of the importance of evaluating Lp(a).
Knowing your Lp(a) levels is essential to understanding your cardiovascular risk factors and how best to address this risk in partnership with your healthcare team. That’s why the Family Heart Foundation educates healthcare providers and the public about Lp(a) and helps improve diagnosis.
Why would your doctor suspect you may have high Lp(a)?
Your doctor may have a greater concern regarding the presence of high Lp(a) if:
- You’ve had a heart attack or stroke at a young age or have fewer heart risk factors
- You have a family history of early cardiovascular disease – heart attack, stroke, poor circulation in your legs
Approximately 30% of people with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) also have high Lp(a). Therefore, anyone with FH should get an Lp(a) test. Learn more about the links between FH and lipoprotein(a) here.
How do I get an Lp(a) test?
A Lipoprotein(a) test measures the level of Lipoprotein(a) in your blood through a simple blood test. It is not a routinely-ordered test as part of a standard lipid panel, so your clinician will need to order it directly if they suspect you may have high Lp(a). The testing code for a Lipoprotein(a) test is CPT code 83695.
What Lp(a) results are considered high? How do I get a diagnosis of elevated lipoprotein(a)?
Generally, results over 50 mg/dL or 125 nmol/L are considered high and could increase an individuals’ risk for heart attacks and stroke.
The family that screens together…
As a genetic condition, high Lp(a) runs in families. When one person is diagnosed with high Lp(a), it’s recommended to test other family members, including parents, siblings, and children.
Get the facts. How high Lp(a) could increase your heart disease and stroke risk.
Many people know what it’s like to live with high Lp(a) – and they’re eager to help you.
