Liposcreen LDL Subfractions

Traditional lipid profiles do not identify the risk of cardiovascular diseases that are caused by the presence of small dense LDL and IDL particles. Dangerous LDL particles may hide behind normal cholesterol levels and, conversely, elevated cholesterol levels do not inevitably have to be associated with a heart attack risk.

Liposcreen separates and quantifies all lipoprotein sub-fractions including the ‘large’, less atherogenic LDL-1 and LDL-2 and the ‘small’, highly atherogenic LDL-3 to LDL-7.   The test also measures VLDL and IDL cholesterol linked with type III dyslipidaemia and associated hyperlipoproteinaemias.

Approximately 50% of patients without heart attack have higher cholesterol levels. A considerable portion of heart attack patients have low cholesterol levels.

Individual differences exist in particular with respect to the LDL levels and here, even more importantly, in the size distribution of the LDL particles. The small LDL particles in particular have a very high atherogenic potential. Therefore, it is less important how much cholesterol a patient has but which type of cholesterol is elevated and which size distribution the cholesterol particles have. These are the parameters the risk assessment and therapy depend on.

Test details

• Test code: 4028
• Category: Cardiovascular
• Kit requirements: SST Serum (Fasting)
• Collection method: CI05.28.01
• Test method: Automated chemistry (Roche Diagnostics), Electropheresis
• Turnaround time: 7-10 business days

What is measured

• Cholesterol
• HDL
• IDL
• LDL
• LDL subfractions (x7)
• Particle Size
• Triglycerides
• VLDL

Resources

• Patient Brochure
• Sample Report

This test should be ordered and interpreted with guidance from a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Important: Test information is general only. Results should be interpreted with a qualified health practitioner and do not replace medical advice or diagnosis.