APOLIPOPROTEINS B

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is the primary protein component of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL). The amount of Cholesterol contained within LDL varies, but each LDL contains exactly one ApoB protein. Therefore, ApoB is a more reliable indicator of circulating LDL compared to LDL Cholesterol. ApoB is strongly associated with increased risk of developing Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and often outperforms LDL-C at predicting risk of Coronary Heart Disease.

This test is advised for following purposes:

Assess Cardiovascular Risk:

• ApoB is a marker for the number of atherogenic particles in the blood, which play a direct role in plaque formation and artery blockage. Elevated ApoB levels indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis, Heart attack, and Stroke.

• Unlike traditional LDL Cholesterol tests, the ApoB test measures the total number of LDL and other harmful particles, offering a more precise evaluation of Cardiovascular risk.

• The ApoB test helps determine the need for and intensity of interventions, such as lifestyle changes or lipid-lowering medications like statins.

• Regular ApoB testing can track the effectiveness of treatments aimed at lowering Cholesterol and reducing atherogenic Lipoprotein levels.

• Used to identify and monitor genetic or acquired Lipid disorders, such as familial Hypercholesterolemia or mixed hyperlipidemia.

• ApoB is particularly useful in individuals with discordant Lipid levels (E.g., low LDL Cholesterol but high ApoB) or in those with Metabolic conditions like Diabetes or Obesity.

The following are a few signs or conditions that could indicate the need for a Apolipoprotein B Test: 

• Family History of Heart Disease
• Personal History of Early Heart Disease
• High Cholesterol Levels That Don’t Improve
• Atherosclerosis
• Unexplained Stroke or Heart Attack
• High Blood Pressure

• Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the Apolipoprotein B Test. 
• Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to a Apolipoprotein B Test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
• Drink adequate water before sample collection.
• Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
• Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.

The Price of a Apolipoprotein B Test is Rs. 800. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with Apolipoprotein B Test
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient