Lipoprotein (a), also known as Lp(a), can serve as a clinically useful risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Lp(a) plays an important role in atherosclerotic and aortic valve disease. Measurement of Lp(a) levels can aid in risk stratification and the triage of patients to more intensive risk factor management. (1)
In November 2023 Roche Diagnostics Australia hosted a complimentary webinar with the aim to educate Australia's healthcare professionals and proactively reduce the one in four (26%) Australian deaths due to cardiovascular disease. (2)
The first presentation, is by Prof. Stephen Nicholls presenting his topic, “Identifying and Managing High Lp(a): Current and Emerging Approaches”.
Prof. Nicholls states, “Lp(a) plays an important role in atherosclerotic and aortic valve disease. Measurement of Lp(a) levels currently plays an important role in risk stratification and the triage of patients to more intensive risk factor management
The second presentation “Lipoprotein (a): What you don't know CAN hurt you?” was given by A/ Prof. David Sullivan.
A/Prof. Sullivan states, elevated Lp(a) is an independent and causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD).
While circulating Lp(a) levels are largely determined by inheritance, they are also influenced by ethnicity, hormones, renal function, and acute inflammatory events.
Circulating Lp(a) concentrations should be estimated using an apo(a)-isoform independent assay that employs appropriate calibrators and reports the results in molar units (nmol/L). Strategies to identify appropriate high-risk patients are evolving and are likely to reflect the emergence of specific treatments.
The final presentation is on “Lp(a) in Clinical Guidelines and Special Populations” given by A/Prof. Karam Kostner, Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Queensland, Mater Public and Private Hospitals.
A/Prof Karam Kostner states, “Lp(a) is the strongest independent risk factor for CVD”.
Before concluding this one-hour session, a “Q & A” section invites audience participation and the opportunity to gain specific insights from our knowledgeable presenters.
