Cardiovascular Markers
Cholesterol, ApoB, Lp(a), homocysteine and ECG — the most important predictors of cardiovascular risk.
LDL Cholesterol
"Bad" cholesterol — primary target of cardiovascular risk management. High LDL promotes the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in vessel walls.
HDL Cholesterol
"Good" cholesterol — removes cholesterol from vessel walls. Low HDL is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Triglycerides
Fat values in the blood. Elevated with sugar- and carbohydrate-rich diet, alcohol use and insulin resistance. Strong association with cardiovascular risk.
ApoB — Apolipoprotein B
More accurate than LDL as a cardiovascular risk marker. ApoB counts all atherogenic particles (LDL, VLDL, IDL). Important for patients with "normal" LDL but elevated cardiovascular risk.
Lp(a) — Lipoprotein(a)
Genetically determined. 1 in 5 people has elevated Lp(a) without knowing it. Strong independent risk factor for heart attack and stroke — not influenced by lifestyle or standard medication.
ApoA1 — Apolipoprotein A1
The main protein of the protective HDL system. Better predictor of cardiovascular risk than HDL cholesterol alone. Low ApoA1 indicates impaired reverse cholesterol transport.
Homocysteine
Amino acid that damages blood vessel walls when elevated. Associated with deficiency of B12, B6 and folic acid. Independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and dementia.
ECG at rest
12-lead electrocardiogram records the electrical activity of the heart. Can detect rhythm disturbances, conduction disorders and signs of previous myocardial infarction.