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).
Indications of the Lipoprotein Electrophoresis Test
This test is recommended in cases of:
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Unexplained elevations in cholesterol or triglycerides.
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Suspected genetic lipid disorders such as familial hypercholesterolemia or familial combined hyperlipidemia.
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Patients with premature coronary artery disease or a family history of lipid disorders.
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Evaluating cardiovascular risk when standard lipid panels provide inconclusive data.
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Determining Fredrickson phenotypes, especially the rare but clinically significant Type III dysbetalipoproteinemia.
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Monitoring response to lipid-lowering therapy in complex cases.
Test Procedure
- 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).,
Measurements of Lipoprotein Fractions
| 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 |
Patient Preparation/Instructions
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Fasting Required: Patients should fast for 9–12 hours before the test to ensure accurate separation and visualization of lipoproteins, especially to reduce chylomicron interference.
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Stable Diet: A consistent diet for at least two weeks prior to testing is recommended to avoid temporary changes in lipid levels.
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Specimen Collection: Blood is collected into a serum separator tube (SST) or a red top tube. After clotting, the sample should be centrifuged, and the serum refrigerated. Do not freeze.
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
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
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.