Lipoprotein (A) in clinical practice

Lipoprotein (a) is a strong and independent risk factor for atherosclerosis severity and a predictor of the risk of ischaemic heart disease and stroke. Many questions are still unanswered in relation to the clinical relevance of the scientific observations on Lp(a) and its application in the realms of cardiovascular prevention. Lp(a), a lipoprotein subtype, is linked to the Apo(a) gene located on chromosome 6q26-27 independently associated with increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). For this review, data sources from Cochrane, Pubmed, MEDLINE from 1960 till 2012 were analysed systematically. At least one-off measurement of plasma Lp(a) was found to be indicated in those with premature coronary disease when no real causative factor was identified. Management seemed promising with PCSK9 I, apheresis, CETPI, dietary choices and ACEi. There was clear evidence that Lp(a) is a definite risk marker for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD).