Apheresis
Ten studies confirm lipoprotein apheresis lowers Lp(a) and cardiovascular events, a critical literature review (Blood Transfus 2016)
Original title: Lipoprotein apheresis for the treatment of elevated circulating levels of lipoprotein(a): a critical literature review
This critical literature review by Franchini, Capuzzo and Liumbruno surveys current and emerging therapies for lowering elevated Lp(a), focusing on lipoprotein apheresis. Following a systematic literature search, the authors identified ten studies that, overall, documented lipoprotein apheresis effectively reduces both elevated Lp(a) levels and cardiovascular events. The review situates apheresis among broader treatment options for Lp(a), an independent cardiovascular risk factor due to its atherogenic, LDL-like and prothrombotic, plasminogen-like properties.
Original abstract
Lipoprotein(a), which consists of a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particle linked to an apolipoprotein(a) moiety, is currently considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease due to its atherogenic (LDL-like) and prothrombotic (plasminogen-like) properties. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current and newer therapies for lowering increased lipoprotein(a) levels, focusing on lipoprotein apheresis. After a systematic literature search, we identified ten studies which, overall, documented that lipoprotein apheresis is effective in reducing increased lipoprotein(a) levels and cardiovascular events.
Summary written by lp-a.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 18 August 2026. Methods.