Lipoprotein(a) Unit Converter

Lipoprotein(a), often written as Lp(a), is a cholesterol-carrying particle similar to LDL ("bad" cholesterol) but with an additional protein called apolipoprotein(a) attached. This unique structure makes Lp(a) both atherogenic (promotes plaque buildup) and prothrombotic (promotes blood clotting).

Unlike other lipoproteins, Lp(a) levels are primarily determined by genetics, with over 90% of your level controlled by the LPA gene. Levels remain relatively stable throughout life and are not significantly affected by diet or exercise.

Lp(a) concentrations vary widely between individuals, ranging from less than 1 mg/dL to over 200 mg/dL. Elevated Lp(a) is a well-established independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and aortic valve stenosis.

Lp(a) is synthesized exclusively in the liver. The apolipoprotein(a) component is produced by hepatocytes and then linked to an LDL-like particle at the liver cell surface.