Lipoprotein (a) Test​: Normal Range, Cost & Results

The Lipoprotein (a) test is a blood examination that quantifies the amount of Lp(a) lipoprotein in your bloodstream. Lp(a) is a type of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) that carries cholesterol and resembles LDL cholesterol but includes an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). High levels of Lp(a) are associated with an increased risk of heart and blood vessel diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

What Does a Lipoprotein(a) Test Check For?

The Lipoprotein(a) test assesses the concentration of Lp(a) in your bloodstream. Elevated Lp(a) levels are associated with an increased risk of:

• Cardiovascular Diseases: High Lp(a) can lead to the buildup of plaques in arteries, contributing to conditions like coronary artery disease.As a result, blood flow to the heart becomes restricted, which can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and other cardiovascular issues. Unlike other cholesterol tests, Lp(a) plays a unique role in plaque formation and its elevated presence may indicate an increased likelihood of these cardiovascular conditions, even in individuals who do not have elevated cholesterol levels.
• Stroke: Increased Lp(a) levels may elevate the risk of ischemic strokes due to arterial blockages.Lp(a) contributes to the formation of arterial blockages that may affect blood flow to the brain, raising the likelihood of a stroke. The association between high Lp(a) and stroke risk has made it a valuable marker in stroke prevention, especially in individuals with no other apparent stroke risk factors.

Normal Range of Lipoprotein(a) Levels

Lp(a) levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). The general classifications are:

Lipoprotein(a) Test Price in India

At Max Hospital, we offer this diagnostic test at a competitive price of ₹. Our cutting-edge laboratory facilities are equipped with advanced technology to ensure highly accurate and timely results. We serve both domestic and international patients, maintaining the highest standards of quality and patient care.

To get the exact pricing and availability of this test in your specific city or location, we recommend checking with your nearest Max Lab center or visiting our official website. Our customer support team is also available to assist you with any queries related to appointments, sample collection, or reports.

Diseases That a Lipoprotein(a) Test Can Detect

Elevated Lp(a) levels can indicate a higher risk for several conditions, including:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Plaque buildup in the coronary arteries leading to heart attacks.Over time, this plaque narrows and hardens the arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. When the arteries become significantly narrowed, it can limit or block blood flow to the heart. The reduced blood supply to the heart muscle can lead to angina (chest pain) and can eventually result in a heart attack if the blood flow is completely obstructed.
• Ischemic Stroke: Blockage of blood flow to the brain due to arterial plaques.This blockage prevents blood and oxygen from reaching brain cells, leading to brain tissue damage or death. High levels of Lp(a) contribute to the formation of arterial blockages by increasing the formation of plaques, which can obstruct blood flow to the brain. As a result, elevated Lp(a) levels are considered a significant risk factor for ischemic strokes, especially in individuals who may not have other stroke risk factors like hypertension or smoking.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowing of arteries in the limbs, causing reduced blood flow.This can cause pain, cramping, and weakness in the affected limbs, especially during physical activity (claudication). In severe cases, it can lead to tissue damage or even the loss of a limb. Like CAD, high Lp(a) levels are associated with an increased risk of PAD, as elevated Lp(a) contributes to the formation of plaques in the peripheral arteries, leading to restricted blood flow.

Identifying high Lp(a) levels allows for proactive management of these potential health risks.

Lipoprotein(a) Test Results: What Do They Mean?

Interpreting your Lp(a) test results involves understanding the measured levels:

• Normal: Less than 30 mg/dL – Indicates a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Borderline Risk: 14 to 30 mg/dL – Suggests a moderate risk; lifestyle modifications may be recommended.
• High Risk: Greater than 30 mg/dL – Implies a significant risk; further evaluation and intervention may be necessary.

Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to interpret these results in the context of your overall health and family history.

Composition and Ingredients of a Lipoprotein(a) Test

The Lipoprotein(a) test is a simple blood test that measures the concentration of Lp(a) in your blood. It does not involve any medications or external substances. The test analyzes:

• Lipoprotein(a) Levels: Quantifies the amount of Lp(a) present in the bloodstream. Elevated levels of Lp(a) are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. The results of the test help in identifying whether you have an increased cardiovascular risk due to this particular lipoprotein.

This straightforward analysis provides valuable information about your cardiovascular risk profile.

Uses of a Lipoprotein(a) Test

The Lipoprotein(a) test serves several important purposes:

• Risk Assessment: Helps evaluate the likelihood of developing.
• Family History Evaluation: Particularly useful for individuals with a genetic predisposition to heart conditions.
• Treatment Planning: Assists healthcare providers in formulating personalized treatment and prevention strategies.

Understanding your Lp(a) levels can lead to more informed decisions regarding your heart health.

Side Effects and Risks of a Lipoprotein(a) Test

The Lipoprotein(a) test is a routine blood draw with minimal risks. Potential side effects include:

• Mild Discomfort:.A slight pain or bruising at the needle insertion site, which is typical with any blood draw. This discomfort usually subsides shortly after the procedure.
• Dizziness: Rare instances of lightheadedness post-draw.This is a common reaction and often passes within a few minutes.

These effects are typically short-lived and resolve without intervention.

Book Your Lipoprotein(a) Test at Max Hospital

Worried about your heart health? A Lipoprotein(a) test is a simple, powerful way to assess your risk for heart disease and stroke—even if your regular cholesterol levels are normal.

Max Hospital offers accurate, fast, and reliable testing with the convenience of home sample collection, world-class facilities, and expert medical support for both Indian and international patients.

• Affordable price starting at just ₹#
• NABL-accredited labs for accurate results
• Reports available within 24–48 hours
• Home sample collection available across major cities

Schedule your Lipoprotein(a) test with Max Hospital and take the first step toward a healthier heart.

Call now or book online at:

Early diagnosis saves lives. Get tested, stay protected.

FAQs

Is a Lipoprotein(a) test done before surgery?

It is not a routine pre-surgery test, but may be advised if your doctor wants to assess cardiovascular risk before major surgical procedures.

What is the normal range for a Lipoprotein(a) test?

The normal range is usually considered less than 30 mg/dL. Levels above this may indicate a higher risk of heart disease or stroke.

How long does it take to get Lipoprotein(a) test results?

Most labs provide results within 24 to 48 hours, especially if processed at reputed centers like Max Hospital.

Do I need to fast before a Lipoprotein(a) test?

No fasting is required for this test. It can be done at any time of the day.

Is the Lipoprotein(a) level affected by diet or exercise?

Unlike cholesterol, Lp(a) levels are mainly determined by genetics and are not significantly impacted by lifestyle or medications.

Why is Lipoprotein(a) testing important if my cholesterol is normal?

Even if your LDL cholesterol is normal, high Lp(a) levels can still increase cardiovascular risk, making this test an important additional marker.