Lipoprotein(a) as a cardiovascular risk factor.
Evidence for the role of lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) in atherosclerosis and thrombosis has considerably increased over the past few years. Therefore, Lp(a) is currently classified as an emerging lipid risk factor for cardiovascular disease. High Lp(a) plasma levels carried in particles with small-sized apolipoprotein(a) isoforms are associated with preclinical vascular changes, cardiovascular disease and the mode of presentation of coronary artery disease (acute coronary syndromes). However, randomized clinical trials with an emphasis on agents that specifically lower plasma Lp(a) do not exist. At present, screening for increases in Lp(a) in the general population is not recommended. The measurement of Lp(a) may be of value in individuals with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly in patients with high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol plasma levels, since a high Lp(a) concentration in such subjects further increases the risk of coronary heart disease.
Katsouras
Christos S
CS
University of Ioannina, Department of Cardiology, 45110 Ioannina, Greece. cskats@yahoo.com
Tsironis
Loukas D
LD
Elisaf
Moses
M
Goodevenos
John A
JA
Michalis
Lampros K
LK
Tselepis
Alexandros D
AD