Heart & metabolic

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] test

Lp(a) is an inherited cholesterol particle that raises heart and stroke risk.

Included in every $199 draw

Key benefits of Lp(a) testing

Reveals a genetic risk that diet and exercise don't change much.
Usually needs testing only once, since levels stay stable for life.
Explains early heart disease in families with "normal" cholesterol.
Helps your physician decide how aggressively to manage other risks.
Rarely included in a standard physical.

What is Lp(a)?

Lp(a) is an LDL-like particle with an extra protein attached, called apolipoprotein(a). Your level is set mostly by your genes, and about one in five people has an elevated level.

Why Lp(a) matters

Lp(a) promotes both plaque and clotting. High levels raise the risk of heart attack, stroke and aortic valve narrowing, often at younger ages.

What your Lp(a) results mean

Low or in range: your inherited risk from Lp(a) is low. There's usually no need to retest.
High: your baseline heart risk is higher. Your physician may focus harder on ApoB, blood pressure and blood sugar.
Context matters: results come in nmol/L or mg/dL, and the two units can't be converted exactly.

Standard vs. optimal range

	Range
Standard lab range	Below 75 nmol/L (about 30 mg/dL); 125 nmol/L (about 50 mg/dL) or more is considered high risk
Insyght optimal range	Set by the Insyght medical team

LowHigh

Lab reference rangeYour optimal range

A value can read normal on a standard panel and still sit outside optimal. Insyght flags it.

Do I need an Lp(a) test?

Did a parent or sibling have a heart attack or stroke young? Is your cholesterol "fine" but your family history isn't? Most major heart guidelines now suggest testing Lp(a) at least once.

Test the risk you inherited

Insyght includes Lp(a) in every panel, along with ApoB and full lipids, reviewed by a physician. $199 a year.

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Similar biomarkers

ApoBLDL-CNon-HDL Cholesterolhs-CRPTriglycerides

Frequently asked questions

Can I lower my Lp(a)?

Lifestyle changes barely move it. That's why managing your other risks matters more if it's high. Ask your physician about current options.

How often should I test Lp(a)?

For most people, once is enough, since the level is mostly set by genes.

Should my family get tested?

If your level is high, your parents, siblings and children may have high levels too. Testing can help them plan early.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Rishi Panchal, DO, FACC, Board-certified cardiologist, Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. Last updated September 28, 2026.