Apolipoprotein B

Understanding the marker

Apo B is a protein in LDL and other blood-fat particles that can contribute to deposits in arteries. It adds information to the cholesterol measurements.

Apo B helps estimate the number of these cholesterol-carrying particles. LDL measures the cholesterol they carry, so the two tests provide related but different information. Any treatment target depends on the overall cardiovascular assessment.

What does high Apolipoprotein B mean?

A higher Apo B generally reflects more of these particles. A clinician considers it with LDL, other risk factors and health history to decide whether action is needed.

What does low Apolipoprotein B mean?

A lower Apo B generally reflects fewer of these particles. Whether the result meets an appropriate target depends on the other lipid results, health history and any treatment.