Findings presented at the 2014 scientific sessions of the National Lipid Association (NLA) compared the efficacy of lipoprotein tests aimed at evaluating the “bad” cholesterol in the bloodstream.
While low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc)—also known as the bad cholesterol in the body—is positively associated with CHD, there has been increased interest in identifying new CHD biomarkers. Recent studies suggest that a patient’s LDL particle (LDLp) concentration, which tells exactly how many bad particles are present in the bloodstream, may actually be a better predictor of CHD. In fact, measuring LDLp is advocated by NLA in both the patient’s initial evaluation and during follow-up of those with an established risk of CHD.
Data from a study comparing tests based on use of the Vertical Lipoprotein Particle (VLP) and the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) LipoProfile showed that the VLP test compared well with NMR, demonstrating the benefit of new testing methods for determining a patient’s risk for coronary heart disease (CHD).
The study presented on Friday, May 2, at the 2014 NLA scientific sessions in Orlando compared Atherotech Diagnostic’s new VLP technology with the NMR—a test traditionally used to measure LDLp—and found similar results between the two.
Peter A McCullough, MD
“With CHD continuing to be the leading cause of death in the United States, it’s critical that we, as physicians, are offering our patients the most comprehensive and cutting-edge tests and technologies available to ensure we are accurately measuring their risk,” said Peter A. McCullough, MD, of Baylor Health Care System in Dallas. “While NMR paints an accurate picture of LDLp measures, it’s refreshing to see that recent technologies, such as the VLP, are becoming available and have comparable, if not better, results as we seek new and innovative ways to improve patient outcomes.”
The VLP technology was developed by Atherotech Diagnostics Lab, the makers of the VAP+ Lipid Panel—the most accurate and comprehensive lipid profile available to assess cardiometabolic risk factors in three areas: cholesterol, triglycerides, and hereditary. As part of the VAP+ Lipid Panel, the VLP technology isolates and provides a true LDLp without interference from other particles—unlike other particle number technologies—so patients know exactly how many of the bad particles are floating around in their bloodstream, resulting in the most accurate risk assessment possible.
For more information, visit Atherotech.
