Extended Lipid Profile
Understanding Extended Lipid Profile
What is Extended Lipid Profile?
An Extended Lipid Profile gives detailed insights into different types of cholesterol and fats in your blood, going beyond the standard lipid profile. This test provides a better understanding of your heart health and tells about the risks of heart disease and stroke.
Lipids are fatty compounds that are essential to many body functions such as the maintenance of cell membrane structure, hormone production, energy storage, etc., and serve as the building blocks for all living cells.
An Extended Lipid Profile offers a thorough evaluation of these lipids, going beyond the scope of a standard lipid profile. This advanced test offers a more nuanced understanding of your cardiovascular health by examining additional markers beyond the basic lipid profile. The standard lipid profile generally includes measurements of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), and triglycerides while an extended lipid profile includes additional biomarkers, also known as cardiac risk markers such as serum Apolipoprotein B and A1, Lipoprotein A, homocysteine, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). Elevated levels of these markers may indicate an increased risk of heart disease.
Unlike the standard lipid profile, the extended lipid profile offers a holistic view of lipid metabolism, allowing for better risk stratification and personalized treatment.
The doctor may recommend extended lipid profile testing for Individuals with a family history of cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, or hypertension to comprehensively assess their specific risk factors. If previous lipid profile results showed abnormalities or borderline values, an extended lipid profile can provide a more detailed evaluation to guide treatment decisions. Individuals with suspected cardiovascular disease may undergo this test to evaluate their risk more accurately. Certain individuals with unique risk factors or health conditions like chronic kidney disease, metabolic syndrome, or autoimmune disorders may require a thorough lipid profile assessment. Those on lipid-lowering therapy, such as statins, may undergo periodic extended lipid profile testing to monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust medication dosage as needed. Proactive individuals interested in heart disease prevention may opt for an extended lipid profile to obtain a comprehensive evaluation of their cardiovascular health status and early identification of potential risk factors.
Usually, overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is required before going for an Extended Lipid Profile. However, drinking water is acceptable. Also, avoid binge eating, and intake of high-calorie foods and alcohol a day before the test. It is important to inform the doctor if you are taking other medications or supplements as they might interfere with test results. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking them temporarily.
Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation, therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for proper understanding of the test results. Discuss your symptoms and medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings, leading to a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan tailored to your specific health needs.
What is Extended Lipid Profile used for?
An Extended Lipid Profile is done:
- For a comprehensive assessment of lipid levels and cardiovascular risk.
- For a more detailed analysis of the lipid metabolism beyond the basic lipid profile.
- To evaluate cardiovascular health and risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
- In individuals with risk factors like family history of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and prior heart attack or stroke.
- To determine an individual's risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, etc.
- In Individuals with a previous history of a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular event to monitor their lipid levels closely and adjust their treatment accordingly.
- To evaluate treatment response for patients undergoing lipid-lowering therapy or other interventions for cardiovascular risk reduction.
What does Extended Lipid Profile measure?
Contains 14 testsAn Extended Lipid Profile measures various parameters related to cholesterol and other fats in the blood, providing a more comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health.
This profile includes Apolipoprotein A1 and B serum, High-sensitivity C-reactive protein test (hs -CRP), serum homocysteine test, Lipid profile, and Lipoprotein A test. hs -CRP is a marker of inflammation in the body and high levels of hs-CRP are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Homocysteine is an amino acid linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke when present in high levels and this test helps evaluate cardiovascular risk and may guide treatment decisions. The lipid profile includes measurements of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. These all are crucial indicators of cardiovascular health and risk. Furthermore, Lipoprotein A is a type of cholesterol particle associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Elevated Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), the primary protein component of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and decreased Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), the primary protein component of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
An Extended Lipid Profile aimed at providing a comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular risk by assessing not only traditional lipid parameters but also inflammation and other risk factors.
Lipid Profile
The Lipid Profile assesses the level of specific fat molecules called lipids in the blood and helps determine the risk of heart ailments. This test determines the amount of different types of lipids, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. Lipids play a pivotal role in the functioning of the body. They are crucial components of the cell membranes and hormones, provide cushioning, and are a storehouse of energy. Any alterations in the lipid levels may lead to potential heart ailments, making their monitoring crucial.
Know more about Lipid Profile
This further contains
- Non HDL Cholesterol
- Cholesterol - HDL
- Very Low Density Lipoprotein
- Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio
- LDL/HDL Ratio
- Cholesterol - LDL
- Triglycerides
- Cholesterol - Total
hsCRP (High Sensitive CRP)
An hsCRP (High Sensitive CRP) test is a state-of-the-art biochemical marker to predict potential risks of future diseases. This test is more sensitive than the standard CRP test and can also detect lower CRP levels in the blood. Its accuracy in predicting cardiovascular issues, autoimmune disorders, and other health issues makes it an excellent test to detect asymptomatic conditions with limited diagnosis.
Know more about hsCRP (High Sensitive CRP)
Lipoprotein A
The Lipoprotein A test measures the amount of lipoprotein A (Lp-A) particles in your blood. Lipoprotein A is a mixture of Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and a protein called apolipoprotein a. Lp-A levels are largely determined by genetics. Lp-A levels are not significantly affected by diet, exercise, or lifestyle changes, unlike other types of cholesterol. That is why testing for Lp-A is essential, particularly for individuals with a strong family history of cardiovascular (heart or blood vessel) disease as it is considered an independent risk factor for heart attack and stroke. This test can help identify individuals who are at high risk, enabling early intervention to prevent future complications.
Know more about Lipoprotein A
Serum Homocysteine
The Serum Homocysteine test measures your blood levels of homocysteine that serves in the body as an intermediate in the metabolism of methionine and cysteine. Methionine is an essential amino acid and antioxidant that synthesizes proteins. Cysteine is a nonessential amino acid synthesized from methionine. It reduces inflammation, increases communication between immune cells, and increases liver health.
The human body generally has low levels of homocysteine. This is because our body uses vitamins B12, B6, and folic acid (also called folate or vitamin B9) to break down homocysteine rapidly, convert it into other compounds, and transport it to our body. However, high levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks, damage to arteries, and brain stroke.
Know more about Serum Homocysteine
Apolipoproteins A1 & B Serum
The Apolipoproteins A1 & B Serum test helps check the levels of Apolipoproteins in your blood. It contains three tests namely, Apolipoprotein - A1, Apolipoprotein - B, and Apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio. Apolipoprotein - A1 is the primary protein associated with HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) and its increased concentrations are associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Apolipoprotein B is the primary protein associated with LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and other lipid molecules. An increase in LDL cholesterol is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. While the apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio compares the values of Apo B to ApoA1 and an elevated ApoB:ApoA1 ratio confers increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Getting tested with the Apolipoproteins A1 & B Serum test can help lower your risk for cardiovascular disease and ensure that you live a longer, healthier life.
Know more about Apolipoproteins A1 & B Serum
This further contains
- Apolipoprotein - A1
- Apolipoprotein - B
- Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Extended Lipid Profile
Frequently Asked Questions about Extended Lipid Profile
Q. Why should I take an Extended Lipid Profile?
Q. Is there any risk associated with an Extended Lipid Profile?
Q. How often should I book an Extended Lipid Profile?
Q. What are the most common examples of heart disease?
Q. What are the common symptoms of heart disease?
Q. Why is the lipid profile important for heart health?
Q. What is the role of hsCRP and homocysteine in assessing heart health?
Q. What is the major difference between heart attack and stroke?
Q. What is atherosclerosis?
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References
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- Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) [Internet]. WHO; 11 June. 2021 [Accessed 20 Mar. 2024]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(cvds)
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- Gofman JW, Lindgren F. The role of lipids and lipoproteins in atherosclerosis. Science. 1950 Feb 17;111(2877):166-71. [Accessed 20 Mar. 2024]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15403115/
- Rippe JM. Lifestyle Strategies for Risk Factor Reduction, Prevention, and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2018 Dec 2;13(2):204-212. [Accessed 20 Mar. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6378495/
- Prevent Heart Disease [Internet]. CDC; 21 Mar. 2023 [Accessed 20 Mar. 2024]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/prevention.htm#:~:text=Choose%20Healthy%20Habits&text=Be%20sure%20to%20eat%20plenty,can%20help%20prevent%20high%20cholesterol.
- Thiriet M. Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Markers. Vasculopathies. 2019 Feb 19;8:91–198. [Accessed 20 Mar. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7123062/#:~:text=The%20major%20independent%20cardiovascular%20risk,HDLCS%20concentration%20%5B226%5D.
- Upadhyay RK. Emerging risk biomarkers in cardiovascular diseases and disorders. J Lipids. 2015;2015:971453. [Accessed 20 Mar. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4407625/
- Understand Your Risk For Heart Disease [Internet]. NIH; 24 March 2022. [Accessed 20 Mar. 2024]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/heart-healthy-living/risks
- Singh S, Zeltser R. Cardiac Risk Stratification. [Updated 2023 May 16]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507785/
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