Comprehensive cholesterol LDL blood test & health dashboard

Lipoprotein Particle Check

$225 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 we test

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

IDL is a transitional lipoprotein that is eventually converted to LDL. Elevated levels of IDL in the blood can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, just like LDL.

Large LDL

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) can be categorised into subfractions, which range from LDL-1 through to LDL-7 based on their size and density. Among these subfractions, LDL-1 and LDL-2 are thought to be less atherogenic than LDL-3 to LDL-7, meaning they may have a lower tendency to contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. This is due to the fact that LDL-1 and LDL-2 are larger and more buoyant than LDL-3 to LDL-7, which reduces their likelihood of penetrating the arterial wall and contributing to plaque formation.

Small Dense LDL

Research indicates that higher quantities of smaller, denser LDL3-7 particles are linked to inflammation and pose a greater risk of causing atherosclerosis compared to fewer, larger and more buoyant LDL1-2 particles. LDL3-7 particles are smaller and denser, and are more likely to permeate the arterial wall and participate in the formation of plaque.

Lipid Subfractions Summary

Test instructions

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

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

Results for this test available in 10-12 days and will be published in your online dashboard.

Ready. Set. Go!

for $225