Apolipoprotein B, Serum
Use
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is used to assess cardiovascular risk and is a significant predictor of coronary heart disease (CHD). It is the primary protein component of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and provides a more reliable indicator of circulating LDL levels than LDL cholesterol (LDL-C). ApoB concentrations have been shown to better predict CHD risk than LDL-C, particularly when basic lipid measures do not align with clinical presentation or when there's a significant family history of coronary artery disease or other risk factors.
Special Instructions
For patients requiring only apolipoprotein B analysis, order this specific test. If both apolipoprotein A and apolipoprotein B levels are required, consider ordering the combined APOAB test. Samples should be sent refrigerated. Ensure proper specimen handling and select appropriate forms for submission if ordering manually.
Limitations
In rare cases, certain conditions such as gammopathy, particularly IgM type like Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, may cause unreliable test results. It's crucial to consider factors such as potential specimen collection errors and interfering substances which may affect diagnostic accuracy.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Automated Turbidimetric Immunoassay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1884-6
- 1884-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Preferred: Serum gel; Acceptable: Red top
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Storage Instructions
Send specimen refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 8 days |
| Frozen | 60 days |
