16th September 2006
nhone,
The VAP directly measures LDL and divides it into 4 different density classes (small dense LDL is far more dangerous than larger "fluffy" particles), VLDL into several, several HDL sub groups (only one of which offers much protection), even Lp(a) fractions and classifies the overall picture into a Pattern A or Pattern B profile. I believe there is even separate measuring of the protein substructures, the apolipoproteins.
BTW, pravastain actually lowers LDL particle size where atorvastatin increases it and rosuvastatin increases it a lot.
Next blood test I will have the whole workup...I've only done it piecemeal like ordering HDL-2, HDL-3, apolipoprotein A and apo B and of course Lp(a.) IF my insurance company gives me a firm okay though...no way I'll do it out of pocket.
Of course it helps to have an EXPERIENCED cardiologist interpret them, or better yet, work hard at understanding the nuances oneself. Having a GP look at them and say, "Uh Huh, looks okay," might be a waste of coin!
The VAP directly measures LDL and divides it into 4 different density classes (small dense LDL is far more dangerous than larger "fluffy" particles), VLDL into several, several HDL sub groups (only one of which offers much protection), even Lp(a) fractions and classifies the overall picture into a Pattern A or Pattern B profile. I believe there is even separate measuring of the protein substructures, the apolipoproteins.
BTW, pravastain actually lowers LDL particle size where atorvastatin increases it and rosuvastatin increases it a lot.
Next blood test I will have the whole workup...I've only done it piecemeal like ordering HDL-2, HDL-3, apolipoprotein A and apo B and of course Lp(a.) IF my insurance company gives me a firm okay though...no way I'll do it out of pocket.
Of course it helps to have an EXPERIENCED cardiologist interpret them, or better yet, work hard at understanding the nuances oneself. Having a GP look at them and say, "Uh Huh, looks okay," might be a waste of coin!