Lipoprotein(a)
Also known as: Lp "Little a"
Use
Lp(a) determination is intended for use in conjunction with clinical evaluation, patient risk assessment, and other lipid tests to evaluate disorders of lipid metabolism and to assess coronary heart disease in specific populations.
Special Instructions
Intake of alcohol, aspirin, niacin, and estrogen supplements can affect the concentration of Lp(a), potentially misrepresenting true levels.
Limitations
Lp(a) acts as an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease and cerebral infarction. The levels of Lp(a) vary across populations, with 15% to 20% of the white population having levels ≥75 nmol/L, indicating presumed risk. Ethnic variability in Lp(a) concentrations requires cautious interpretation of results, as Africans or people of African descent usually have higher levels than Caucasians and Asians, while Native Americans have lower levels. This variability necessitates careful consideration alongside other cardiac risk factors.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunoturbidimetric)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 43583-4
- 43583-4
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, green-top (heparin) tube or blue-top (citrate) tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum or plasma from cells as soon as possible (within two hours).
Patient Preparation
Intake of alcohol, aspirin, niacin, and estrogen supplements have the potential of causing a misrepresentation of true Lp(a) concentrations.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Grossly hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric specimens
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |