A lipid panel, or lipid profile, is a blood test that measures the amount of fat molecules called lipids in your blood. These substances are important for your body to function, but when they are at unhealthy levels, they can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke by causing plaque to build up in your blood vessels – this is called atherosclerosis. The results of the lipid panel are used by your doctor to evaluate your risk and guide treatment decisions to improve your cardiovascular health.
Here is a breakdown of the key components measured in a lipid panel:
Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol is simply the sum of all the fat-like cholesterol in your blood. Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but too much can be a problem. Think of it as your overall cholesterol score, which includes both the “good” and “bad” types.
HDL Cholesterol (“Good” Cholesterol)
HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein. It works like a scavenger, picking up excess cholesterol from your blood vessels (arteries) and taking it back to your liver for removal from the body. Generally, high levels of HDL-cholesterol level are linked to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke, making it beneficial for your overall heart health.
LDL Cholesterol (“Bad” Cholesterol)
LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. It is the main carrier of cholesterol to the walls of your arteries. When you have too much LDL-cholesterol in your blood, it builds up, hardens, and narrows your arteries. This buildup, called plaque, restricts blood flow and blocks your arteries. High levels of LDL-cholesterol are the most important factor to cause you to have a heart attack and/or stroke.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another type of fat your body uses for energy. When you consume more calories than you need, your body converts the extra calories into triglycerides and stores them in fat cells. High triglyceride levels are often associated with a higher risk of heart disease, especially when combined with high LDL-cholesterol or low HDL-cholesterol.
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
Apolipoprotein B, or apoB, is a protein found on all “bad” cholesterol particles, including LDL. Each of these particles contains exactly one apoB molecule, so an apoB test can give a more accurate count of the total number of potentially harmful particles in your blood than just measuring LDL-cholesterol. Some experts believe that apoB is a better indicator of heart disease risk than LDL-cholesterol alone. A higher apoB level in your blood predicts a higher risk of heart disease.
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]
Lipoprotein(a) is an LDL-like particle which carries cholesterol to your cells through your arteries. Your blood Lp(a) levels are largely determined by your genes and are not easily changed through diet or exercise. If you have high levels of Lp(a) particles, cholesterol can build up in your arteries and cause blockage and blood clots in your arteries. An Lp(a) test can give you a better understanding of your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other blood vessel diseases.