Overview of Lipoprotein (a) Level

The Lipoprotein (a) (a.k.a. Lp (a)) levels are determined via a blood test. Note that Lp (a) is not tested in a standard lipid panel where cholesterol levels are determined, and an explicit request for Lp (a) testing is required.

The following table summarizes Lp (a) levels and associated risk of coronary artery disease:

Lipoprotein (a) RangeRisk Of Coronary Artery Disease
<14 mg/dL (less than 140 nmol/L)Lower
14-50 mg/dL (140-500 nmol/L)Increased
> 50 mg/dL (greater than 500 nmol/LElevated
Lipoprotein (a) Summary