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Lipoprotein(a): A Novel Risk Factor for Heart Failure and Biomarker of Prognosis? From Pathophysiology to Clinical

Anna Kowalczys1, Joanna Marlęga-Linert1, Marcin Gruchała1

  • 11st Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Gdańsk Gdańsk, Poland.

Cardiac Failure Review
|May 11, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Elevated Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) may increase the risk of heart failure (HF) and adverse cardiovascular events. Further research is needed to clarify Lp(a)

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Biomarkers
  • Risk Factors

Background:

  • Heart failure (HF) presents a significant global health challenge.
  • Identifying novel risk factors and prognostic biomarkers for HF is crucial.
  • The role of Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) in HF pathogenesis remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of the association between Lp(a) levels and HF.
  • To explore the pathophysiological links between Lp(a) and HF.
  • To discuss clinical implications and current management strategies related to Lp(a) in HF.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on Lp(a) and HF.
  • Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms.
  • Synthesis of clinical evidence and management guidelines.

Main Results:

  • Lp(a) is a known risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and aortic valve stenosis.
  • Evidence suggests elevated Lp(a) may increase HF risk.
  • A correlation between high Lp(a) and major adverse cardiovascular events in HF patients is indicated.

Conclusions:

  • The causal role of Lp(a) in HF requires further investigation.
  • Elevated Lp(a) is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to HF development and prognosis.
  • Understanding Lp(a)'s impact is vital for refining HF risk stratification and management.

Keywords:
Lipoprotein(a)biomarkercardiovascular diseaseheart failureprognosis

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