Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by your liver and also obtained in food. Standard cholesterol tests are useful as screening tools to assess individuals at risk for coronary artery disease. Established tests include total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins or LDL, high-density lipoproteins or HDL, and triglycerides. Based on the results of standard cholesterol tests, a broader range of testing provides further data to accurately diagnose your risk for heart disease.
C-reactive Protein
C-reactive protein is manufactured by the liver when inflammation occurs as a result of injury, disease or infection in your body. When considered with the results of standard cholesterol testing, tests results showing an elevated C-reactive protein might indicate atherosclerotic fatty deposits in blood vessels causing the inflammatory process. The C-reactive protein test is useful as a marker for inflammation but does not indicate the location of inflammation. A more specific test result called the high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, or hs-CRP, can predict the likelihood of a future heart attack.
Lipoprotein(a)
Lipoprotein(a) test, also called lp(a), measures blood levels of a cholesterol protein particle similar to LDL that is inherited as a genetic trait. A family history of cardiac diseases at a young age or sudden death, as well as LDL levels that remain unchanged by treatment, are indicators for the test. A significantly increased level of the lipoprotein(a) particle indicates a serious risk of stroke or heart attack. It is important to know that the statin medications, which are used to lower cholesterol, have no effect on lipoprotein(a).
Homocysteine
Homocysteine, an amino acid found normally in blood circulating within the body, is a vital material necessary for producing and preserving body tissues. If high levels of homocysteine collect in the bloodstream it increases plaque formation in blood vessels, causing heart disease and peripheral artery disease. The tendency toward high levels can be inherited but additional causes include smoking, kidney conditions, medications, folate and vitamin B deficiencies. Increased intake of folate and B vitamins including green leafy vegetables, supplements and fortified grain products can decrease levels.
Fibrinogen
Fibrogen, a protein in the blood, aids in normal blood clotting but an excess can cause clot formation in vessels, resulting in a heart attack or stroke. Elevated levels can indicate an inflammatory process is occurring in the body. Excess fibrinogen can also increase damage to vessel walls previously injured. Conditions that increase fibrinogen levels include a lack of exercise, contraceptives and estrogen supplements, excessive alcohol use and smoking.
Natriuretic Peptides
Natriuretic peptides, especially B-type natriuretic peptide, are proteins released by the heart and blood vessels in response to stress. The result of natriuretic peptide secretion is less strain on the heart by decreasing edema, widening narrowed blood vessels and decreasing blood pressure. B-type natriuretic peptide blood levels rise with heart failure and other heart conditions. Test values can vary as a result of the aging process, gender and pre-existing conditions.
