Markers Included In The Test
Apolipoprotein A: Apolipoprotein A (ApoA) is a component of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as "good cholesterol." Higher levels of ApoA are generally protective, as they help to remove cholesterol from the bloodstream and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.
Apolipoprotein B: Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is a protein that forms part of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the so-called "bad cholesterol." High levels of ApoB can indicate an increased risk of developing atherosclerosis and heart disease
Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) in your blood. While it is essential for the production of certain hormones and the formation of cell membranes, too much cholesterol, especially "bad" LDL cholesterol, can build up in the arteries, leading to heart disease. On the other hand, "good" HDL cholesterol helps remove the LDL cholesterol from your bloodstream.
C-reactive Protein (High Sensitivity) (hsCRP): High Sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hsCRP) is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation or infection. Elevated hsCRP levels can indicate ongoing inflammation or infection, and are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and chronic conditions such as diabetes.
HDL Cholesterol: HDL cholesterol, often called "good cholesterol," helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream, reducing the risk of clogged arteries and heart disease. Higher levels are generally better, as they can provide more protection against heart disease.
LDL Cholesterol: LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, carries cholesterol particles throughout your body. High levels can build up in the walls of your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, which narrows and hardens the arteries, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Lipoprotein (a): Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), is a type of LDL cholesterol that carries an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a). High levels of Lp(a) in the blood can increase the risk of developing heart disease, even when LDL cholesterol levels are normal. This makes Lp(a) an important marker for assessing cardiovascular risk.
Lp-PLA2 (PLAC): Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2 or PLAC) is an enzyme linked to inflammation in the arteries. Elevated levels may indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis, a condition involving plaque buildup in the arteries that can lead to heart disease and stroke, providing a more specific insight into cardiovascular disease risk compared to traditional cholesterol tests.
Non-HDL Cholesterol: Non-HDL cholesterol is a measurement of all the cholesterol carried by particles in the blood that can potentially cause heart disease, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). High levels can indicate a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood that your body uses for energy. High levels can be caused by various factors, including obesity and diabetes. High levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, especially when accompanied by high cholesterol levels.
