Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Cardio IQ Lipid Panel, Lipid Panel Cardio IQ, Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.
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The Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test contains 1 test with 6 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool that assesses a patient's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by examining various lipid-related factors. Unlike traditional lipid panels that focus on total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel offers a more in-depth view of your lipid panel results with a unique report found under the My Orders section of your patient portal.

Also Known As: Lipid Profile Test, Lipid Test, Cholesterol Profile Test, Cholesterol Panel Test, Cholesterol Test, Coronary Risk Panel Test, lipid blood test 

Collection Method: Blood Draw 

Specimen Type: Serum 

Test Preparation: Patient should be fasting 9-12 hours prior to collection.

This is a Cardio IQ™ test and will likely need an additional 5-7 days for processing compared to the standard version of the test, Lipid Panel #7600.

When and Why a Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel Test May Be Ordered

Healthcare providers may order the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel for various reasons:

  1. High-risk patients: For those with a family history of CVD or those who have other risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or tobacco use.
  2. Clarification: When traditional lipid panel results are unclear or contradictory, or when a more detailed risk profile is desired.
  3. Monitoring: For tracking the effectiveness of treatments such as lipid-lowering medications or lifestyle interventions.

What the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel Test Checks For

The Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel delves deeper into lipids markers to give a more thorough picture of cardiovascular risk. This might include:

  • Cholesterol, Total
  • HDL Cholesterol
  • LDL Cholesterol
  • Triglycerides
  • Non HDL Cholesterol
  • Chol/HDLC Ratio

Additional Lab Tests Ordered Alongside the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel Test

When a Cardio IQ Lipid Panel is ordered, it is typically part of a broader evaluation of cardiovascular health. Several other tests are commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP):

    • Purpose: Measures the level of CRP, a marker of inflammation in the body, with high sensitivity.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Inflammation plays a significant role in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Elevated hs-CRP levels are associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

  2. Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a):

    • Purpose: Measures the level of Lp(a), a type of lipoprotein associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Lp(a) is a genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can provide additional risk assessment, especially in individuals with a family history of heart disease.

  3. Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1):

    • Purpose: Measures levels of ApoB and ApoA1, which are proteins in LDL and HDL particles, respectively.
    • Why Is It Ordered: ApoB and ApoA1 levels can provide additional insight into cardiovascular risk, beyond traditional cholesterol measurements.

  4. Homocysteine:

    • Purpose: Measures the level of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated homocysteine levels can be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can also indicate vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

  5. Fasting Blood Glucose and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c):

    • Purpose: Measures blood sugar control and diabetes risk.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Diabetes is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. These tests help identify diabetes or prediabetes, which require management to reduce cardiovascular risk.

  6. Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T3, Free T4):

    • Purpose: To assess thyroid function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Thyroid disorders can affect lipid metabolism, influencing cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk.

  7. Kidney Function Test:

    • Purpose: To evaluate kidney function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Kidney disease can impact cardiovascular health and lipid metabolism.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Cardio IQ Lipid Panel, provide a comprehensive view of an individual’s risk factors for cardiovascular disease. They help in identifying underlying conditions that may contribute to cardiovascular risk and guide treatment and lifestyle interventions to mitigate these risks. The selection of these tests will depend on the individual's overall health, family history of cardiovascular disease, and existing risk factors.

Conditions or Diseases Requiring a Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel Test

The primary purpose of the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel is to assess cardiovascular risk, so it's mainly used in the context of:

  • Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): For those with a known history or high suspicion of CVD.
  • Dyslipidemia: Patients with abnormal lipid levels, either too high or too low, who require a more in-depth analysis.
  • Family history: Individuals with a strong family history of premature heart disease or other cardiovascular events.

Usage of Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel Test Results by Health Care Providers

Healthcare providers utilize the results of the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel to gain a better understanding of a patient's unique cardiovascular risk profile. This detailed insight allows them to make more informed decisions about treatments and interventions. For instance, if the panel reveals high levels LDL cholesterol, a doctor may prioritize treatment to target LDL choelsterol. The results also serve as a tool for educating patients about their individual risks and tailor preventive measures accordingly.

Most Common Questions about the Lipid Panel Test:

Understanding the Basics

What is the primary objective of the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test?

The Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test is designed to provide a detailed assessment of a patient's lipid levels in the blood. This test measures various types of cholesterol, including total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. The information obtained from this test can help healthcare providers assess a patient's risk for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke.

Why might the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test be chosen over traditional lipid panels?

The Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test offers a unique report of a patient's lipid levels compared to traditional lipid panels.

Medical Implications and Applications

How can the results from the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test guide medical interventions?

Based on the results from the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test, healthcare providers can tailor interventions to address specific lipid imbalances. For instance, if a patient has elevated levels of a particular cholesterol subtype that's known to increase cardiovascular risk, targeted therapies, like specific medications or lifestyle changes, can be recommended to address that specific abnormality. The detailed lipid profile allows for more personalized treatment plans, optimizing preventive strategies for cardiovascular diseases.

Is the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test suitable for all individuals?

While the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test can be beneficial for a wide range of individuals, it's especially valuable for those with a family history of heart disease, personal history of cardiovascular issues, or those who may have risk factors that make them more susceptible to cardiovascular diseases. However, the decision to use the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel should be based on a discussion between the patient and their healthcare provider, considering individual risk factors and medical history.

General Knowledge and Considerations

How often should one get the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test?

The frequency with which one should get the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test varies based on individual risk factors and previous test results. Typically, adults over the age of 20 should have their cholesterol checked every four to six years. However, for individuals with known cardiovascular risk factors or those on specific treatments, more frequent testing may be recommended. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate testing frequency for each individual.

Does the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test replace the need for other cardiovascular risk assessments?

No, while the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test provides a comprehensive view of lipid levels and can be a valuable tool in assessing cardiovascular risk, it's only one piece of the puzzle. Other factors, such as blood pressure, family history, lifestyle habits, and the presence of other conditions like diabetes, also play crucial roles in determining overall cardiovascular risk. The Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel should be used in conjunction with other assessments and evaluations for a comprehensive understanding of cardiovascular health.

Test Interpretation

What do the results of the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test specifically indicate?

The results of the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test provide detailed information about various lipid levels in the blood. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, can indicate a higher risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. High levels of HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, can be protective against heart disease. Elevated triglycerides can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, the test may identify specific cholesterol subtypes or particles, each with its implications regarding cardiovascular risk. It's essential to discuss the results with a healthcare provider for a complete understanding and interpretation.

If there are abnormalities in the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test results, what are the next steps?

If the Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel test results indicate any abnormalities, the next steps can include further evaluations to understand the underlying causes, modifications in lifestyle (such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation), and possibly medications to address specific lipid imbalances. It's crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized plan based on the test results and other relevant factors.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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