apolipoprotein peptide FAQ

The normal range for apolipoprotein B is less than 90 milligrams per deciliter, or mg/dL, of blood. If you receive normal test results, you have appropriate amounts of lipoproteins in your blood, and your risk for heart disease is low. Abnormal results can mean a few things. High levels of apoB. ApoB-100 levels measuring above 110 milligrams per deciliter are high. If your test results show a higher-than-normal rate, you have a higher-than-normal risk for heart disease. Some underlying conditions can cause high apoB levels, including:

Healthy people have small amounts of low-density cholesterol in their blood, but higher numbers can mean you are at risk for heart problems. Since each of these cholesterol carries one apoB, the test is a good measure for the total amount of lipoproteins or bad cholesterol present in your blood. Your doctor might order this test for different reasons, including:

Besides the conditions that can cause low or high levels, other medications and lifestyle factors might affect your test results. These include:

Apolipoprotein B-100 is a protein that helps carry fat and cholesterol through your body. It is also called apolipoprotein B or apoB, for short. Your body needs fat and cholesterol to produce hormones and keep your cells healthy. Despite being necessary, fat and cholesterol don't dissolve well in the blood. In order for your body to deliver these compounds, they are packaged into a compound called a lipoprotein, with an apolipoprotein on the outside. ApoB carries a variety of lipoproteins, which are known as bad cholesterol:

The apoB test is a simple blood test. A lab technician or nurse draws blood from your arm to use for analysis. If your doctor orders other tests, like a lipid panel, you may need to fast for 12 hours before your test. When fasting, it's important to drink only water. Your doctor will tell you if this is necessary.