Highlights
- •Causal association between high lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease–related events and mortality.
- •Laboratory methods and population-based considerations for Lp(a) cut points.
- •When to measure Lp(a) in adults and youth.
- •Treatment implications in primary and secondary prevention.
Abstract
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a well-recognized, independent risk factor for atherosclerotic
cardiovascular disease, with elevated levels estimated to be prevalent in 20% of the
population. Observational and genetic evidence strongly support a causal relationship
between high plasma concentrations of Lp(a) and increased risk of atherosclerotic
cardiovascular disease–related events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, and
valvular aortic stenosis. In this scientific statement, we review an array of evidence-based
considerations for testing of Lp(a) in clinical practice and the utilization of Lp(a)
levels to inform treatment strategies in primary and secondary prevention.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: May 17, 2019
Accepted:
April 26,
2019
Received:
April 24,
2019
Identification
Copyright
© 2019 National Lipid Association. All rights reserved.
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