ApoB: how many potentially harmful particles?
Apolipoprotein B, or ApoB, is a protein on particles that can deposit cholesterol in artery walls. Its blood level reflects the concentration of these particles. That differs from LDL cholesterol, which describes the cholesterol being carried.[1]
ApoB can be informative when particle concentration and LDL cholesterol give different impressions of risk. The 2026 multisociety dyslipidemia guideline describes selective ApoB testing, particularly in situations such as elevated triglycerides, diabetes or low LDL cholesterol achieved with treatment.[4]
For that specific comparison, see ApoB vs. a standard cholesterol test.
Lp(a): an inherited part of the picture
Lipoprotein(a), usually written Lp(a), is a cholesterol-carrying particle whose level is strongly influenced by genes. It generally changes little over time. Elevated Lp(a) can add cardiovascular risk even when a routine cholesterol result looks reassuring.[2]
The 2026 guideline recommends measuring Lp(a) at least once in adulthood.[2][4]
hs-CRP: inflammation, without its location
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein, or hs-CRP, detects small amounts of a protein the liver makes in response to inflammation. The test can help estimate cardiovascular risk, but it cannot show where inflammation is occurring or what caused it. Infection and other inflammatory conditions can affect CRP.[3]
The American Heart Association describes hs-CRP as a possible additional test when a person's estimated cardiovascular risk is borderline. Persistently elevated results require consideration of other causes of inflammation. A single high value does not establish inflamed arteries.[5]
