Lp(a) Lipoprotein(a)
The Lp(a) test measures lipoprotein(a) levels in the blood to assess cardiovascular disease risk, particularly important for those with family history of heart disease.
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Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This test measures the blood level of lipoprotein(a), often written as Lp(a), a specialized cholesterol-carrying particle that is structurally similar to LDL but includes an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). That extra protein makes Lp(a) particles stickier than standard LDL, giving them a greater tendency to lodge in artery walls and promote plaque formation.
What makes Lp(a) distinctive among cardiovascular risk markers is that its level is almost entirely genetically determined. Most individuals reach their lifetime Lp(a) concentration by around age 5, and the level remains largely stable regardless of diet, exercise, or standard lipid-lowering medications. Lp(a) is now recognized as an independent, causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and aortic valve stenosis. Because Lp(a) is not included in standard lipid panels, many people with elevated levels are unaware of the risk. Testing it at least once provides information that no other routine cholesterol test can reveal.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals with a family history of early heart disease, particularly when a parent or sibling experienced heart attack or stroke before age 55 (men) or 65 (women).
- Those who have experienced heart attacks, strokes, or other cardiovascular events despite having normal or only mildly elevated standard cholesterol levels.
- People with familial hypercholesterolemia or other genetic lipid disorders, as more than 30% of people with this condition also have high Lp(a).
- Individuals with recurrent cardiovascular events despite optimal cholesterol management and other risk factor control.
- Anyone seeking a comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment, as it is recommended that every American adult get their Lp(a) tested at least once in their life, while 1 in 5 people or 63 million people in the US have high Lp(a).
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is required for the Lp(a) test. Fasting is not necessary, and individuals may take medications as usual. The test can be performed at any time of day.
Sample Type
The test involves a simple blood draw from a vein in the arm. The process takes just a few minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
Collection
A trained phlebotomist will clean the area, insert a needle to collect the blood sample, and apply a bandage. Individuals can resume normal activities immediately.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 2-4 business days and will be provided through secure online access with no doctor visit required.
Understanding your results
Results are reported in either milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or nanomoles per liter (nmol/L), depending on the laboratory. Levels below 30 mg/dL (or below approximately 75 nmol/L) are generally considered normal, while levels above 50 mg/dL (or above 100 nmol/L) are associated with meaningfully elevated cardiovascular risk. Because Lp(a) is genetically fixed, an elevated result does not reflect a lifestyle failure; it represents inherited risk that healthcare providers factor into the broader cardiovascular picture when making decisions about how aggressively to manage other modifiable risk factors like LDL cholesterol and blood pressure.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | <30 mg/dL (<75 nmol/L) | Normal/optimal range associated with lower cardiovascular risk |
| Adults | 30-50 mg/dL (75-125 nmol/L) | Borderline to high risk range |
| Adults | >50 mg/dL (>125 nmol/L) | High risk range associated with significantly increased cardiovascular risk |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low or undetectable Lp(a) levels are generally considered favorable and indicate lower cardiovascular risk from this particular biomarker. Some people may even have undetectable levels of Lp(a). However, low Lp(a) does not eliminate cardiovascular risk, as other factors such as cholesterol, blood pressure, and lifestyle still play important roles in heart health.
What does a “High” result mean?
If individuals have high Lp(a), they may be more likely to have cardiovascular disease, even if other cholesterol numbers are normal. Elevated Lp(a) levels are associated with increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other vascular conditions. Patients with Lp(a) levels >50 mg/dL are considered to have an increased risk of heart disease. High levels may indicate the need for more aggressive management of other cardiovascular risk factors.
Privacy & confidentiality
All Lp(a) test results are kept strictly confidential and are protected under HIPAA privacy regulations. Results are not shared with insurance companies, employers, or added to your permanent medical record without your consent. No doctor visit is required to access your results.
Frequently asked questions
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Last reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 83695
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
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