No Correlation Between Lipoprotein(A) and Biochemical Markers of Renal Function in the General Population (Clinical Report‪)‬

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is an intriguing lipoprotein particle consisting of a low-density lipoprotein core in addition to a covalently bound glycoprotein, apolipoprotein(a) (apo(a)). (1) Although the physiologic function of Lp(a) has not been fully elucidated, a number of epidemiologic and experimental studies have highlighted the possible contribution of Lp(a) to the pathogenesis of vascular occlusive disorders, especially when it is associated with other classic risk factors, such as high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. (1,2) An appropriate clinical interpretation of Lp(a) testing is, however, an additional tool in the accurate stratification of the cardiovascular risk, a framework that requires identification of potential interrelationships and biologic synergies that might act as confounding factors. (3) Although the plasma levels of Lp(a), which may vary more than 1000-fold between individuals, are mostly influenced by quantitative and qualitative traits at the apo(a) locus, some pathologic conditions might influence its metabolism. These conditions include diabetes, acute or chronic inflammation, and impaired liver protein synthesis. (1-4) Although previous investigations have assessed the plasma concentrations of Lp(a) in patients with impaired renal function,5 results are contradictory, and no information is available on the possible association between Lp(a) and additional biochemical markers other than serum creatinine, such as the estimated glomerular filtration rate (e-GFR) and cystatin C. Since the potential influence of renal dysfunction on Lp(a) metabolism might be regarded as an important factor for cardiovascular risk prediction and prevention in the general population, we evaluated the potential relationships among creatinine, e-GFR, and cystatin C in a general population.