The most commonly measured blood lipids include: total serum cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglyceride (TG).
Higher total and LDL cholesterol and higher triglyceride, but a low HDL cholesterol, increase the risk for cardiovascular disease.
The best indicator for cardiovascular risk status is LDL-C.
There are a variety of apoproteins that can be measured, such as lipoprotein-PLA2 and lipoprotein(a). Apo-B is the major apolipoprotein of LDL-C.
After lowering LDL-C, there is residual risk in some populations, such as those with diabetes mellitus and with metabolic syndrome. Residual risk may be assessed with tests such as: HDL-C, triglyceride, hs-CRP, and Lp(a). Such additional testing should be considered in view of responses to therapy or consideration of additional therapies.
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