Lp(a) is similar to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in lipid composition but differs in protein profile. The structural component of Lp(a) distinguishing it from LDL and implicating it in the coronary disease process is apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)], a highly glycosylated protein attached by disulfide bond to apolipoprotein B100 (apo B100). Apo(a) has a high degree of structural homology with plasminogen that is a key zymogen of the coagulation cascade.

The similarity of structural components of Lp(a) to LDL and to plasminogen suggests that Lp(a) may be associated with atherosclerosis and/or thrombosis. Although there is a lack of consistency in the conclusions of the studies about the contributory role of Lp(a) to coronary heart disease, it is widely accepted that Lp(a) is an important risk factor that may contribute to coronary artery disease independently or cooperatively with other risk factors.

While the wide differences in Lp(a) levels seen among individuals are largely due to hereditary factors, the identification of individuals at risk through diagnostic screening should nevertheless be useful in alerting them to the need to eliminate or control other high risk factors when possible. Lp(a) values should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical evaluation and other lipoprotein tests when assessing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in specific populations.

Overview

Method

The test is a kinetic measurement of the Lp (a) concentration at 700 nm (Absorbance).
 

Measurement range

This is a kinetic test based on a latex-immunoturbidimetric measurement.

Serum / Plasma:
10 – 100 mg/dl for (LOT dependent)
 

Test duration

This test takes approx. 5 minutes.
 

Package insert

More details can be found in the package insert.

Please note: All package inserts provided on this website are intended for information purposes only! Always process all tests, controls and calibrators strictly according to the package insert provided with the kit.

Appropriate instruments

CUBE	CUBE-S	smart 700/340	smart 700/546

Evaluation

Assay evaluation

Find the evaluation study for the Eurolyser Lipoprotein (a) assay here: Evaluation Eurolyser Lipoprotein

 
Please note: depending on the time of the market launch of an assay, the respective assay evaluation was carried out using either a Eurolyser smart instrument or a Eurolyser CUBE instrument.

Since the measurement method is the same in both instruments (their photometric units are identical in construction), as was proved in this comparison study, all testkit evaluations provided on this website are valid for either instrument!

Additional information

Article numbers

ST 0141     Lipoprotein (a) test kit (containing 16 tests)
ST 1400     Lipoprotein (a) control kit (decision level)