Apolipoproteins Profile Test

Two types of tests are included in an Apolipoproteins profile: A-1 and B. These tests are ordered, along with other lipid tests, to assess the individuals risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This is not a routinely ordered test; ordered only when a person has a family history of heart disease or high levels of cholesterol. Apo A-1 is a protein which is involved in the metabolism of lipids and is the primary component of high-density lipoprotein, i.e. ‘good cholesterol.’ Apo B is a protein with the same function but is a primary component of low-density lipoprotein, i.e. ‘bad cholesterol.’

A person appearing for this test will have to give his blood in a fasting state. He cannot eat or drink anything except water for 14 hours preceding the test. It is recommended that the person does not consume alcohol for 48 hours preceding the test. It will be sufficient if the person wears clothes which make it easy for drawing blood from the inside of his elbow. Therefore, a shirt with half sleeves or easy to fold up sleeves is recommended.

This test is primarily ordered to determine the person’s risk of cardiovascular disease. The Apo B/ Apo A-1 ratio is used to determine this risk. Other uses include to test for hyperlipidemia, which is a genetic condition causing high blood levels of cholesterol. Apo A-1 is sometimes ordered when a person has undergone lipid-lowering treatment or lifestyle changes like reduced intake of fat and regular exercise, to monitor the effectiveness of such change. Apo B may be ordered to monitor the change in persons who are undergoing treatment for high cholesterol.

The drawing of blood is done in a test centre, hospital or at home by a trained professional. The site of drawing blood is generally the inside of your elbow. The area is first rubbed with alcohol using a cotton pad. A disposable needle is injected into a vein which can be seen in this area and blood is drawn. This is then stored in a specific container with the details of the person. This sample is sent to the research laboratory for results.