Lipoprotein Electrophoresis, Serum Test
Lipoprotein electrophoresis is a test that analyzes the different types of lipoproteins in the serum to detect abnormal lipid patterns and cardiovascular risk. Lipoprotein electrophoresis is useful for diagnosing dyslipoproteinemia, which is characterized by abnormal levels of lipoproteins, including cholesterol and triglycerides.
Unlike standard lipid panels, it provides a visual breakdown of lipoprotein fractions (VLDL, LDL, HDL, IDL, and chylomicrons).
Why do you need Lipoprotein Electrophoresis Test?
In case of:
- Unexplained high cholesterol or triglycerides
- Suspected genetic lipid disorders
- Monitoring patients with abnormal lipid metabolism
- Evaluating cardiovascular risk beyond standard LDL/HDL tests.
- Assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Determining the Fredrickson classification of hyperlipoproteinemia, especially the Type III phenotype.
How Does Lipoprotein electrophoresis Test Works
- Sample Collection: Fasting (9–12 hours) blood draw (serum).
- Electrophoresis Process:
- Serum is applied to a gel or agarose medium.
- An electric current separates lipoproteins by size/charge.
- Staining reveals bands corresponding to different fractions.
- Analysis: Densitometry quantifies each lipoprotein fraction.
Turnaround Time: 1–3 days (varies by lab).,
Lipoprotein Fractions Measured
| Fraction | Composition | Associated Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Chylomicrons | Dietary triglycerides | Pancreatitis (if very high) |
| VLDL | Endogenous triglycerides | Atherosclerosis (linked to metabolic syndrome) |
| IDL | Intermediate-density | Increased CVD risk |
| LDL | Cholesterol-rich | Strongly linked to heart disease |
| HDL | “Good cholesterol” | Protective against CVD |
| Lp(a) | Genetic variant of LDL | High risk of early heart disease |
Comparison with Other Lipid Tests
| Test | What It Measures | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Lipid Panel | Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides | Routine screening |
| Lipoprotein Electrophoresis | VLDL, IDL, LDL, HDL, chylomicrons | Diagnosing lipid disorders |
| ApoB Test | Apolipoprotein B (all atherogenic particles) | Refining CVD risk |
| LDL-P (NMR) | LDL particle number | Advanced risk assessment |
Patient Preparation/Instructions
- Fasting: Patients should fast for 12-15 hours before specimen collection.
- Diet: Maintain a stable diet for at least two weeks prior to testing.
- Specimen Collection: Blood should be collected in a serum separator tube (SST) or a plain red top tube. After collection, centrifuge the sample to separate the serum and refrigerate it. Do not freeze the sample.
Typical Reference Values
Reference values may vary by laboratory but generally include
- Total Cholesterol: Desirable <200 mg/dL
- Triglycerides: Desirable <150 mg/dL
- HDL Cholesterol: Low <40 mg/dL; High >60 mg/dL (negative risk factor)
- LDL Cholesterol: Optimal <100 mg/dL; High ≥160 mg/dL
Lipoprotein Electrophoresis: Interpretation Table
| Pattern | Elevated Fraction(s) | Associated Disorder | Cardiovascular Risk | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | None (HDL > LDL, minimal VLDL) | N/A | Low | Routine monitoring |
| Type I | Chylomicrons | Familial chylomicronemia (LPL deficiency) | High pancreatitis risk | Triglyceride-lowering diet, fibrates |
| Type IIa | LDL | Familial hypercholesterolemia | Very high (early CAD) | Statins, PCSK9 inhibitors |
| Type IIb | LDL + VLDL | Combined hyperlipidemia | High (metabolic syndrome) | Statins + lifestyle changes |
| Type III | IDL (broad β-band) | Dysbetalipoproteinemia (ApoE2/E2) | Very high (peripheral artery disease) | Fibrates, low-fat diet |
| Type IV | VLDL | Hypertriglyceridemia (obesity, diabetes) | Moderate-high | Weight loss, omega-3, fibrates |
| Type V | Chylomicrons + VLDL | Mixed hyperlipidemia (genetic + secondary) | Pancreatitis + CVD | Severe triglyceride reduction |
Key to Abbreviations:
- LDL: Low-density lipoprotein || HDL: High-density lipoprotein || VLDL: Very-low-density lipoprotein|| IDL: Intermediate-density lipoprotein|| Lp(a): Lipoprotein(a) || CAD: Coronary artery disease : Lipoprotein lipase
FAQ
- How is this different from a regular cholesterol test?
A: Standard tests estimate LDL; electrophoresis visually separates lipoproteins for precise diagnosis. - Do I need to fast?
A: Yes, 9–12 hours—otherwise, chylomicrons may interfere. - Can it detect Lp(a)?
A: Yes, but a direct Lp(a) immunoassay is more accurate for quantification. - Is this test covered by insurance?
A: Usually yes if medically justified (e.g., suspected genetic disorder).
Turnaround Time
The results for lipoprotein electrophoresis are typically reported within 2 to 9 days from the date of specimen receipt.
How To order lipoprotein electrophoresis in Kenya
Please click the ‘Order Test’ button and put lipoprotein electrophoresis in your cart.
You are welcome to visit our laboratory in Kilimani, Nairobi. This will initiate the process for obtaining your test.