APO B | Apolipoprotein B

Apolipoprotein B (apoB) – is a protein found in low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which is closely associated with "bad" cholesterol. ApoB is a structural part of every atherogenic lipoprotein particle – LDL, IDL, and VLDL – therefore, its amount reflects the total number of atherogenic particles in the blood. Lower concentrations of apolipoprotein B are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Apo B testing can be performed along with apolipoprotein A1 determination to evaluate the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio. This ratio is considered a reliable marker of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease risk as it reflects the balance between "bad" and "good" lipoproteins.  

Determining apolipoproteins is especially important for patients with elevated cholesterol, LDL, or triglyceride levels but with uncertainty about the actual atherosclerosis risk. The test is also useful for individuals suspected of having lipid metabolism pathology, such as familial combined hyperlipidemia – a common but not always early-recognized condition diagnosed in some patients who have experienced a myocardial infarction.

The test is recommended for the following lipid values: total cholesterol from 5.2 to 7.8 mmol/l, triglycerides from 2.3 to 4.6 mmol/l, LDL cholesterol from 3.5 to 4.5 mmol/l.

Principle of the test: Apolipoprotein B concentration is determined from venous blood. Results are presented in g/l units. 

Recommendations:

• Recommended to be performed prophylactically for patients with elevated lipid levels.
• Useful for assessing cardiovascular disease risk, especially with moderate lipid elevation.
• Assigned to patients with familial dyslipidemia or early cases of heart disease in the family.
• Performed before starting lipid-lowering therapy and for treatment control.
• Test results may be influenced by medications, diet, physical activity.
• It is recommended to come for the test fasting for at least 12 hours.