Apolipoproteins A1 & B Test
Apolipoproteins A1 & B Test
The Apolipoprotein A1 (apo A1) and Apolipoprotein B (apo B) tests measure the level of proteins related to cholesterol metabolism. Apo A1 is associated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good" cholesterol, while apo B is linked to low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the "bad" cholesterol. A higher apo A1 level indicates better cardiovascular health, as it is involved in removing cholesterol from the bloodstream. Conversely, elevated apo B suggests increased risk, as it reflects higher LDL levels that contribute to atherosclerosis.
Thus, getting your apolipoprotein A1 and B test done can help in the early detection of cardiovascular disease risk. It can also be used for cholesterol monitoring and diagnosing various health conditions.
Who Should Get Tested?
Apolipoprotein A1 and B test is recommended to be performed frequently in adults who are at a risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
Examples of risk factors include:
If you are over 60 years of age
High cholesterol on a prior test
Past history of heart disease
Family history of heart disease or of high cholesterol
Being overweight
Smoking cigarettes
Alcohol consumption
Having high blood pressure (hypertension)
Having type 2 diabetes
Eating an unhealthy diet
Leading an inactive lifestyle
Taking medications for high cholesterol levels
Test Preparation
No special preparation is required for an apolipoprotein A1 and B test. However, if other tests like a cholesterol panel are ordered along with this test, then it is important to fast for 9 to 12 hours before sample collection.
Interpretation Of Results
The units of measurement for the results are grams per litre (g/L)
Apolipoprotein A1 reference ranges
|
Age |
Apolipoprotein A-1 (g/L). Female |
Apolipoprotein A-1 (g/L). Male |
|
<14 days |
0.71 - 0.97 |
0.62 - 0.91
|
|
15 days - 1 year |
0.53 - 1.75 |
0.53 - 1.75
|
|
1y - 14y |
0.80 - 1.64 |
0.80 - 1.64 |
|
14y - 19y |
0.72 - 1.54 |
0.72 - 1.54 |
|
19y - 60y |
1.01 - 2.23 |
0.95 - 1.86
|
|
>60y |
0.91 - 2.24 |
0.73 - 1.86
|
Apolipoprotein B reference ranges
|
Age |
Apolipoprotein B (g/L)
|
|
<14 days |
<0.68
|
|
15 days - 1 year |
<1.24
|
|
1y - 6y |
<0.94
|
|
6y - 19y |
<0.85
|
|
>19y |
0.4 - 1.20
|
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
· High levels of Apolipoprotein A1 are generally considered beneficial, as they are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Elevated Apo A1 levels are often seen in conditions such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, pregnancy, and sometimes with medications like statins.
· Low levels of Apo A1 are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Conditions that can lead to decreased Apo A1 include genetic disorders such as Tangier disease, uncontrolled diabetes, liver disease, and certain inflammatory conditions.
· High levels of Apolipoprotein B are generally considered harmful, as they are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.
· Low levels of Apo B are associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular diseases
FAQs
How is the sample collected for an apolipoprotein A1 and B test?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm using a fine needle. This procedure typically takes no longer than five minutes.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the results of an apolipoprotein A1 and B test?
What are the risks associated with an apolipoprotein A1 and B test?
This test involves negligible risk of infection. There might be slight bruising or tenderness at the insertion site where the needle went in.
How do Apolipoprotein A1 and B differ from cholesterol testing?
Unlike cholesterol tests, Apo A1 and B focus on specific proteins associated with lipoproteins, providing a more detailed view of lipid metabolism in assessing cardiovascular health.
What factors can affect Apolipoprotein A1 and B results?
The results of an apolipoprotein A1 and B test may be affected by factors such as diet, exercise, certain medications, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Additionally, stress and some medical conditions can also affect the accuracy of the test results. So, it is advised to consult your healthcare provider before undergoing the test.
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