Apolipoprotein - A1 Test

This test measures the amount of apolipoprotein in your blood. It helps your healthcare provider to figure out your risk for cardiovascular disease. It helps to start the process for HDL (good cholesterol) to remove bad types of cholesterol from your body.

Patients need to follow specific instructions and in most cases, patients won’t be allowed to consume anything except water for several hours before the test. It’s advisable and important to notify the doctor about any prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications or supplements which is being consumed and some medicines might be asked to stop which may interfere with the accuracy of the test.

Specific results will vary depending on the normal ranges defined by the particular laboratory that analyzed the blood sample. Generally, normal levels are between 40 and 125 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). High levels can be associated with certain health issues, including:

• Familial combined hyperlipidemia.
• Diabetes.
• Hypothyroidism.
• Kidney disease.

• Hyperthyroidism.
• Reye’s syndrome.
• Abetalipoproteinemia
• Cirrhosis or severe scarring of the liver.
• Malnutrition.

The test involves taking a small sample of blood from a vein in your hand or arm. The test involves the following steps:

• A healthcare provider will tie a tight a band known as a tourniquet around your arm which will make your veins easier to see.
• They will clean the desired area with an antiseptic.
• Then, they will insert the needle which feels a slight prick or stinging sensation when it goes in. Blood is collected in a tube or vial attached to the end of the needle.
• Once enough blood has been collected, the needle is removed and they apply pressure to the puncture site for a few seconds.
• They will then put a bandage or gauze over the area where the blood was drawn.
• After the test, patient’s blood sample is sent to a laboratory for testing.