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Lipoprotein Particle Test

Name: Lipoprotein Particle Test
Brand: i-screen
SKU: lipoprotein-particle-test
Price: 229 AUD
Availability: InStock

$229 AUD

50% of people who develop cardiac disease have ‘normal’ cholesterol. A traditional LDL blood test doesn't measure small dense LDL particles, which can hide behind normal cholesterol and increase the risk of heart attack.

Lipid subfraction testing provides detailed information about the types and amounts of lipids (fats) present in the blood. This test measures the different subfractions of lipids, such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL).

Lipid subfraction testing is more comprehensive than standard lipid tests which only measure total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. By analysing the different subfractions of lipids, practitioners can get a more complete picture of a person's lipid profile and may better understand their risk for cardiovascular disease.

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LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease. However, not all LDL cholesterol is equally harmful. Some subfractions of LDL cholesterol, such as small, dense LDL particles, are more harmful than others. Lipid subfraction testing can identify these subfractions and may help inform the risk for cardiovascular disease.

What's included

Lipoprotein (a) - Lp(a)

High levels of Lp(a) increase your risk of atherosclerosis and is an inherited genetic condition.

Cholesterol

Lipids and cholesterol are fat-like substances in your blood. Some are necessary for good health, but when you have a high level of cholesterol in your blood, a lot of it ends up being deposited in the walls of your arteries and other vital organs. Lifestyle choices including diet, exercise and alcohol intake can all influence cholesterol levels and your risk of developing heart disease.

IDL

These intermediate LDL fractions represent particles in the middle of the size and density spectrum. A balanced distribution across these mid subfractions is considered normal, while higher proportions may reflect shifts toward smaller, denser LDL particles, which are more strongly linked to atherosclerosis.

Large LDL

Large LDL particles (LDL-1 and LDL-2) are larger and more buoyant, meaning they are less likely to penetrate arterial walls and form plaque. Higher levels of these subfractions are generally viewed as less atherogenic and may reflect a more favourable lipid profile. Larger, less dense particles transport cholesterol efficiently without easily contributing to arterial blockage.

Small Dense LDL

Smaller, denser LDL particles (LDL-3 to LDL-7) are more reactive and inflammatory, making them more prone to entering the arterial wall and promoting plaque formation. Elevated small dense LDL is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, even when total LDL cholesterol appears normal. These particles indicate increased cardiovascular risk, especially when combined with insulin resistance, high triglycerides, or low HDL cholesterol.

Lipid Subfractions Summary

Your mean LDL particle size provides key insight into coronary risk. Larger, more buoyant LDL particles are generally linked with a lower likelihood of arterial plaque buildup, while smaller, denser LDL particles are more atherogenic and associated with higher cardiovascular risk. Evaluating mean particle size alongside overall lipid subfraction balance offers a more precise view of coronary health and long-term heart disease risk than standard cholesterol testing alone.

Test instructions

Fast from all food and drink (other than water) for at least 8 hours, and no more than 12 hours prior to your test.

Download and print your pathology form from your i-screen dashboard.

Take your form to one of our affiliated collection centres to have your sample taken.

Results for this test typically available in 2 weeks and will be published in your online dashboard.

Ready. Set. Go!

for $229