Advanced Lipid Testing

Standard lipid testing is not always sufficient for determining the overall risk for heart attacks or strokes. Patients with a risk of atherosclerotic disease may have normal levels of LDL and total cholesterol. Also, patients that have been on lipid-lowering medication are still at risk of developing coronary heart disease. Advanced lipid testing is done to evaluate cardiovascular risk more effectively and also to monitor lipid-lowering therapy.

ApoB (apolipoprotein B) and LDL-P (LDL-particle number) are the two most common numbers that are followed with advanced lipid testing. ApoB measures total bad cholesterol. High ApoB levels indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

LDL-P testing measures the number of small dense LDL (sdLDL) particles that can more easily invade the artery walls and increase the risk of plaque formation. High levels of sdLDL can also indicate developing diabetes.

Other measurements in advanced lipid testing include Lp(a) and ApoA1 to determine risks of coronary artery disease (CVD) and cerebrovascular disease. The Lp(a) level is especially valuable in patients with a strong family history of premature CVD.

Our cardiac specialists at Stanislaus Cardiology can determine if advanced lipid testing is required for your specific health history. Call 209-521-9661 for a cardiac appointment today.