Advanced Cardiac Risk Markers
An Advanced Cardiac Risk Markers test is a comprehensive blood test that offers detailed information about your risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the overall health of your heart. Getting tested enables you to make informed health decisions that prevent serious health complications in the future.
Understanding Advanced Cardiac Risk Markers
What does Advanced Cardiac Risk Markers measure?
Contains 6 testsAn Advanced Cardiac Risk Markers test assesses the level of specific proteins called cardiac markers in the blood and helps determine the risk of heart ailments. This test determines the amount of apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B, lipoprotein A, homocysteine, and high-sensitivity CRP in the blood. These cardiac markers play a pivotal role in the functioning of the heart, and a deranged level of any of these might indicate a developing heart disease.
An hsCRP (High Sensitive CRP) test is a state-of-the-art biochemical marker to predict potential risks of future diseases. This test is more sensitive than the standard CRP test and can also detect lower CRP levels in the blood. Its accuracy in predicting cardiovascular issues, autoimmune disorders, and other health issues makes it an excellent test to detect asymptomatic conditions with limited diagnosis.
An Apolipoprotein - A1 test helps check the levels of Apolipoprotein A1 in your blood. Apolipoprotein A1 is the major protein for the high-density lipid (HDL), also known as “good” cholesterol and helps in its transport. Apo A1 helps the HDL to take up cholesterol from the tissues and is bound by receptors in the liver where the cholesterol is destroyed. Assessing the levels of Apolipoprotein A1 directly reflects the high-density lipoprotein levels. In this way, apolipoprotein A can help to lower your risk for cardiovascular disease.
An Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio test helps predict the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals at high risk, such as those who are obese, have a family history of heart disease, have high cholesterol, or have had similar health issues in the past. Apolipoprotein A1 is the primary protein associated with HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), and its increased concentrations are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Apolipoprotein B is the primary protein associated with LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and other lipid molecules. An increase in LDL cholesterol is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, an Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio test is a key marker of developing potential cardiovascular disease (CVD) or heart-related ailments.
The Serum Homocysteine test measures your blood levels of homocysteine that serves in the body as an intermediate in the metabolism of methionine and cysteine. Methionine is an essential amino acid and antioxidant that synthesizes proteins. Cysteine is a nonessential amino acid synthesized from methionine. It reduces inflammation, increases communication between immune cells, and increases liver health.
The human body generally has low levels of homocysteine. This is because our body uses vitamins B12, B6, and folic acid (also called folate or vitamin B9) to break down homocysteine rapidly, convert it into other compounds, and transport it to our body. However, high levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks, damage to arteries, and brain stroke.
The Apolipoprotein - B test measures the level of Apo B in the blood. The protein helps in transporting fats and cholesterol within the body. Apo B is a central component of some fat-carrying particles in the blood, such as very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and chylomicrons. It binds to LDL or "bad" cholesterol, which may result in plaque developing in the blood vessels. This accumulation can lead to heart disease, which can become grave or life-threatening if left untreated.
The Lipoprotein (a) test measures the amount of lipoprotein A (Lp-A) particles in your blood. Lipoprotein A is a mixture of Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and a protein called apolipoprotein a. Lp-A levels are largely determined by genetics. Lp-A levels are not significantly affected by diet, exercise, or lifestyle changes, unlike other types of cholesterol. That is why testing for Lp-A is essential, particularly for individuals with a strong family history of cardiovascular (heart or blood vessel) disease as it is considered an independent risk factor for heart attack and stroke. This test can help identify individuals who are at high risk, enabling early intervention to prevent future complications.