LDL Pattern (A or B)

Cardiovascular

About LDL Pattern

LDL Pattern refers to the subclass distribution of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles in the blood. There are primarily two patterns: Pattern A, which consists of larger, buoyant LDL particles, and Pattern B, which consists of smaller, denser LDL particles. The pattern is assessed to evaluate cardiovascular risk, as smaller, denser LDL particles (Pattern B) are more atherogenic and associated with a higher risk of coronary artery disease.

Reference Values

Optimal Range
Not specified
Elite Value
Not specified

Health Implications

High
Elevated levels may indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and heart attacks due to cholesterol buildup in the arteries.
Low
Low levels may be associated with potential nutritional deficiencies or hyperthyroidism, potentially reducing the body's ability to synthesize necessary hormones and compounds.

Symptoms

{'high': 'May include fatigue, headaches, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing.', 'low': 'Can include dizziness, weakness, frequent infections, and pale or yellowish skin.'}

Lifestyle Factors

Regular cardiovascular exercise Mediterranean diet Increased intake of soluble fiber Inclusion of nuts and seeds in the diet Reduction of saturated and trans fats Consistent sleep schedule

Specimen Type

Blood Serum Blood Plasma

Testing Methods

Electrophoresis NMR Spectroscopy Ultracentrifugation
Also Known As
LDL patternLow-Density Lipoprotein patternLDL subclass analysis

Scientific Sources

  1. 1. Sniderman, A. D., Williams, K., Contois, J. H., Monroe, H. M., McQueen, M. J., de Graaf, J., & Furberg, C. D. (2019). A meta-analysis of low-density lipoprotein particle number and cardiovascular events: Results from 25 clinical studies. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 13(5), 614-623.
  2. 2. Mora, S., Buring, J. E., Ridker, P. M., & Cui, Y. (2017). Association of LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B levels with risk of cardiovascular events among women. JAMA, 316(13), 1363-1372.
  3. 3. Toth, P. P., & Fazio, S. (2018). Lipid management to reduce cardiovascular risk: A new strategy is required. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 12(1), 5-12.
  4. 4. Grundy, S. M., Stone, N. J., Bailey, A. L., Beam, C., Birtcher, K. K., Blumenthal, R. S., ... & Yeboah, J. (2018). 2018 AHA/ACC/AACVPR/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/ADA/AGS/APhA/ASPC/NLA/PCNA guideline on the management of blood cholesterol: A report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation, 139(25), e1082-e1143.
  5. American Heart Association. (2020). Understanding cholesterol: LDL and HDL. Retrieved from

Testing Information

Looking to get your LDL Pattern tested? Find labs near you that offer this test.

Find Testing Locations