Depending on the cut-off used up to one in five individuals may have elevated Lp(a).In addition to increasing risk of atherosclerosis, high Lp(a) is strongly associated with the development of calcific aortic valve disease which can result in narrowing of the aortic valve and aortic stenosis.It is the strongest single inherited (monogenetic) risk factor for the early development of coronary artery disease, heart attacks and strokes.The skeptical cardiologist tests such patients for Lp(a) (pronounced LP little a) and it is quite frequently elevated.įor patients, these are the facts to know about Lp(a) While these are useful, I have many patients who have normal standard values but have developed advanced coronary heart disease at an early age despite following a perfect lifestyle (not smoking, regular aerobic exercise, healthy diet.) The standard lipid profile that most patients get checks LDL (bad) HDL (good) and total cholesterol along with triglycerides.

If you have had a heart attack at an early age or one of your parents did but your standard risk factors for coronary heart disease are normal you should consider getting tested for Lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a).

Little do you know lps