Lipoprotein(a): Screening and Care of the High-Risk Cardiovascular Disease Patient

Abstract

Despite rigorous efforts to mitigate comorbidities contributing to cardiovascular events, the prevalence of heart disease continues to rise. This report highlights the role of lipoprotein (Lp)(a) a low-density lipoprotein, as a causal risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The impact of Lp(a) on heart disease has been well established, and testing is widely available; yet, screening for Lp(a) continues to be underperformed. The role of Lp(a) in the development of cardiovascular diseases as well as the clinical guidelines for screening patients in primary and secondary prevention populations are reviewed. Finally, clinical practice strategies for patients with elevated Lp(a) are presented.