Lipoprotein(a) Test May Signal Early Heart Disease

A new automated test detects and measures lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], which several studies have identified as a risk factor for atherosclerosis when at high levels. As a result, the measurement of Lp(a) has become increasingly important as a potential early warning signal for the disease.

Lipoprotein(a) consists of a low-density lipoprotein linked to a glycoprotein (apolipoprotein a). The N Latex Lp(a) reagent consists of lyophilized polystyrene latex particles coated with antibodies. The nephelometric test is precise and has a sensitivity of 0.2 mg/l. Since some methods of detecting Lp(a) are manual, the automated test is designed to provide faster, more accurate results.

By eliminating errors that may be caused by manually administered tests, automation will help make the new N Latex Lipoprotein(a) assay an effective tool for cardiovascular disease risk assessment and monitoring,” said Pete Fortugno, marketing manager, plasma proteins, at Dade Behring (Deerfield, IL, USA), which developed the test. The N Latex Lp(a) assay can be used in conjunction with the company's high-sensitivity CRP (hsC-reactive protein) test and other assays such as high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol testing to further assess risk of coronary heart disease, he noted.




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