A lipoprotein test helps determine an individual’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease. A lipoprotein is a low-density bodily substance responsible for transporting cholesterol in your blood. Since fat molecules are hardly soluble in the blood, a lipoprotein is required to carry it to where it can be metabolised. However, an excess of lipoprotein in the blood indicates plaque build-up and may put your heart at risk. ApoAB test measures the amount of lipoprotein A1 and B in the blood. It helps analyse the amount of bad cholesterol in your body. A cholesterol test thus helps warn you about the severity of your condition. Although simple lifestyle changes may help you recover from high levels of fat molecules, it’s not a permanent solution. An ignorance of increasing levels of bad cholesterol may make you highly vulnerable to a stroke or significant heart disease. In such a scenario, an apolipoprotein test allows you to manage the condition on time and prevent the onset of severe symptoms. Apollo 24|7 has a complete panel for the ApoAB test that can be ordered conveniently from home. The test looks for a fluctuation in three parameters: Apolipoprotein A: forming the protein component of low-density lipoproteins. Apolipoprotein B: associated with high-density lipoprotein. Ratio of B/A1: indicates the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the patient. Ideally, the amount of ApoB should be lower and ApoA1 should be higher to maintain the cholesterol levels. A lack of this balance alters the ratio which in turn affects the health of your heart. Thus, the higher the B/A1 ratio, the more vulnerable you are to developing a severe cardiovascular ailment. Some reasons for opting for an apolipoprotein test include: Prolonged case of diabetes An underactive thyroid gland Reduction in estrogen levels Renal failure High levels of cholesterol in the blood Severe swelling in kidneys Family history of heart diseases One can also go for a lipoprotein test to: Monitor the efficacy of the treatment Update the diagnosis of heart problems Test the levels of low-density lipids in the blood Follow up on the effect of hormonal therapy Check for the improvement in renal function If you are undergoing a lipid treatment, a lipoprotein test will help you understand its effectiveness. Many doctors also suggest an ApoAB test to diagnose a genetic problem. The genetic issue may be related to low levels of apolipoprotein B and may affect the transportation of low-density lipid towards the cell. In the case of lipoprotein A, the lipoprotein test analyses the presence of Tangier or fish-eye disease. This is caused as a result of Apo A-1 deficiency, which is not a common problem. Even a pregnant woman can undergo a lipoprotein test to ensure she is healthy. This is because the accumulation of bad cholesterols can give rise to cardiovascular diseases, which could be dangerous during pregnancy when a woman is already putting on weight, and it could also affect the delivery of the child.    Medically reviewed by Dr. Ranga Reddy B V A, Cardiologist, Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.