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Published on: October 12, 2017
Lipoprotein(a)-clinical aspects and future challenges.
Bilgen Kurt1, Muhidien Soufi, Alexander Sattler
1Internal Medicine, Preventive Cardiology, University Clinic Gießen and Marburg, 35033, Marburg, Germany.
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is linked to cardiovascular disease risk. While niacin trials failed, elevated Lp(a) confirms residual risk, necessitating aggressive LDL lowering and potentially aspirin.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Lipidology
- Thrombosis
Background:
- Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) combines LDL's atherogenic and plasminogen inactivation's thrombogenic properties.
- Historically, Lp(a)'s role in atherosclerosis was underestimated due to technical challenges and negative trials.
- Recent research has improved understanding of Lp(a)'s function and significance in cardiovascular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a))'s role in cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- To discuss the implications of past and ongoing research on Lp(a) management.
- To provide clinical recommendations for managing patients with elevated Lp(a).
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Lp(a) research, including historical context and recent findings.
- Analysis of interventional trial outcomes, specifically niacin's effect on Lp(a) and CVD risk.
- Evaluation of current and emerging therapeutic strategies for lowering Lp(a).
Main Results:
- Niacin interventions did not show benefit in lowering Lp(a) or reducing CVD events.
- Multiple studies confirm that elevated Lp(a) represents a significant residual cardiovascular disease risk.
- LDL/Lp(a) apheresis effectively lowers Lp(a) levels.
Conclusions:
- Despite past setbacks, elevated Lp(a) is a confirmed risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- New pharmacological agents targeting Lp(a) are under development, requiring further clinical trials.
- Current clinical practice recommends aggressive LDL lowering and consideration of acetylsalicylic acid for patients with high Lp(a).
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