Aortic stenosis
Lp(a) elevation above 50 mg/dL may be the most common monogenic lipid disorder, affecting over 1.4 billion people worldwide, a review (Curr Atheroscler Rep 2021)
Original title: Lipoprotein (a): Recent Updates on a Unique Lipoprotein
This review by Saeed, Kinoush and Virani summarises five decades of research on Lp(a), an LDL-like particle distinguished by its attached apolipoprotein(a), whose structure, biochemistry and pathophysiological role in cardiovascular disease remain incompletely understood despite genetic, epidemiological and translational evidence placing it in the causal pathway for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and aortic valve calcification. The authors estimate Lp(a) elevation above 50 mg/dL, affecting an estimated 1.4 billion people worldwide, may be the most common monogenetic lipid disorder, providing a compelling rationale for its diagnosis and management. The review covers Lp(a) cardiovascular phenotypes and associated morbidity alongside current and emerging therapies aimed at definitively treating elevated Lp(a).
Original abstract
Purpose Of Review: Genetic, epidemiological, and translational data indicate that Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is likely in the causal pathway for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases as well as calcification of the aortic valves.
Recent Findings: Lp(a) is structurally similar to low-density lipoprotein, but in addition to apolipoprotein B-100, it has a glycoprotein apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)], which is attached to the apolipoprotein B-100. Several distinctive properties of Lp(a) can be attributed to the presence of apo(a). This review discusses the current state of literature on pathophysiological and clinical aspects of Lp(a). After five decades of research, the understanding of Lp(a) structure, biochemistry, and pathophysiology of its cardiovascular manifestations still remains less than fully understood. Universally, Lp(a) elevation may be the most predominant monogenetic lipid disorder with approximate prevalence of Lp(a)>50 mg/dL among estimated >1.4 billion people. This makes a compelling rationale for diagnosing and managing Lp(a)-mediated risk. In addition to discussing various cardiovascular phenotypes of Lp(a) and associated morbidity, we also outline current and emerging therapies aimed at identifying a definitive treatment for elevated Lp(a) levels.
Summary written by lp-a.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 18 August 2026. Methods.