Cardiovascular

Lp(a)

Lipoprotein(a). Measured in clinic at The Wellness in Marylebone, read by a doctor.

What It Is

Lipoprotein(a) is a cholesterol-carrying particle similar to LDL but with an extra protein attached. The level in your blood is set largely by the genes you inherit and tends to stay stable across adult life, which is why many people only need to measure it once.

Why It Matters

An inherited tendency to a high Lp(a) is common and usually invisible on a standard cholesterol panel. Knowing your level helps a doctor build a fuller picture of long-term cardiovascular risk, and it can also be relevant information for close family members.

What Results Can Suggest

A higher Lp(a) level is associated with an increased long-term likelihood of atherosclerotic heart disease and problems with the aortic valve. Because the level is largely genetic, a high result is not something lifestyle alone determines. A doctor can place your result in the context of your overall risk and family history, so discuss it with one.

This page is general information, not medical advice and not a substitute for a consultation. Reference ranges vary between laboratories, and results should always be interpreted by a doctor who knows your history.