Test Code 303(includes Apolipoprotein B and Apolipoprotein A-I)
Test Details
Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I Ratio (ApoB/ApoA-I)
The ratio of apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A-I is a strong predictor of heart disease risk. One molecule of apoB is carried per chylomicron, VLDL, LDL, and/or Lp(a) particle. ApoA-I is the major protein of HDL particles.
Methodology
ApoB/ApoA-I is calculated as follows:
ApoB/ApoA-I Ratio = ApoB/ApoA-I
Patient Preparation
8-12 hour fast prior to collection. Patient may drink water only.
Preferred Specimen
1.0 mL serum (0.5 mL minimum) collected in serum separator tube (SST/Tiger Top)
Alternate Specimen
1.0 mL EDTA plasma (0.5 mL minimum) collected in plasma separator tube (Pearl Top)
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 7 days
Lab Values
Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I Ratio (ApoB/ApoA-I)
Without CVD
- Optimal: <0.6
- Borderline: 0.6 – 0.9
- Increased Risk: >0.90
With CVD
- Optimal: <0.5
- Borderline: 0.5 – 0.7
- Increased Risk: >0.7
Clinical Significance
Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I Ratio (ApoB/ApoA-I)
The apoB/apoA-I ratio has been shown in many studies to be a more significant CVD risk factor than either LDL-C or HDL-C alone, or in combination.
Treatment Options
Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I Ratio (ApoB/ApoA-I)
- Lifestyle modification
- Statins
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitor
- Bile acid sequestrants
- Fibrates
- Niacin
