About LDL Small
LDL Small particles refer to low-density lipoprotein particles that are smaller and more dense than typical LDL particles. These are considered more atherogenic due to their ability to more easily penetrate the endothelial layer of blood vessels, leading to plaque formation and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
Not specified
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease due to the potential build-up of fatty deposits in blood vessels.
Low
Low levels may be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular issues, though they could also point to malnutrition or chronic illnesses affecting lipid metabolism.
Symptoms
High
May include fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg cramps.
Low
Can include dizziness, weakness, confusion, or cold extremities.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- Sniderman, A. D., Thanassoulis, G., & Glavinovic, T. (2020). Apolipoprotein B: A Better Marker of Cardiovascular Risk Than LDL-C? *Journal of the American College of Cardiology*, 76(23), 2762–2764.
- Mora, S., Otvos, J. D., Rifai, N., Rosenson, R. S., & Buring, J. E. (2017). Lipoprotein Subclass Measurements Improve Prediction of Cardiovascular Events in Women. *Journal of the American College of Cardiology*, 69(6), 776–785.
- Toth, P. P., & Fazio, S. (2019). Lipoprotein Particle Number: A More Accurate Assessment of Cardiovascular Risk? *Journal of the American College of Cardiology*, 73(5), 552–553.
- Rosenson, R. S., Hegele, R. A., Gotto, A. M., & Ballantyne, C. M. (2019). The Evolving Role of Non-HDL Cholesterol in the Hypertriglyceridemic Patient. *Journal of the American College of Cardiology*, 73(12), 1573–1575.
- Sniderman, A. D., & Thanassoulis, G. (2019). Small Dense LDL: A Marker of LDL Particle Number, Not LDL Quality. *Journal of the American College of Cardiology*, 73(22), 2852–2854.