Lipoprotein (a)

Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), is a type of LDL cholesterol. Your Lp(a) level is determined by your genes and isn't generally affected by lifestyle.

High levels of Lp(a) may be a sign of increased risk of heart disease, though it's not clear how much risk. Your doctor might order an Lp(a) test if you already have atherosclerosis or heart disease but appear to have otherwise normal cholesterol levels or if you have a family history of early-onset heart disease, sudden death or stroke.

Drugs are in development to lower Lp(a), but it isn't yet clear what effect lowering Lp(a) will have on heart disease risk.