Ulta Lab Tests

Coronary Risk Blood Test 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: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Cholesterol, HDL,Fasting Lipids,Cholesterol, LDL, Fasting Lipids, Lipid Panel (fasting), Lipid Profile (fasting), 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.

Also known as: Lipoprotein A, Lp (a), Lp(a)

Lipoprotein (A)

Lipoprotein-a, or Lp(a) are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. A high level of Lp(a) is considered a risk factor for heart disease. High levels of lipoproteins can increase the risk of heart disease. The test is done to check your risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.
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The Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel panel contains 3 tests with 8 biomarkers .

Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel

The Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel is a comprehensive assessment used to evaluate an individual’s risk for cardiovascular diseases by analyzing key biomarkers related to inflammation, cholesterol levels, and lipoprotein abnormalities. Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, making early detection and risk assessment crucial for prevention and management. This panel measures specific markers that provide insight into heart health, vascular integrity, and the likelihood of developing conditions such as atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Healthcare professionals use this panel to gain a clearer picture of a patient’s cardiovascular risk profile, enabling timely interventions through lifestyle changes, medications, and monitoring strategies.

When and Why the Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel May Be Ordered

A healthcare provider may order the Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel for individuals who are at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases due to factors such as family history, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, or a sedentary lifestyle. It is often recommended for patients experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats. Additionally, individuals with high cholesterol or those undergoing treatment for cardiovascular conditions may undergo this panel to monitor their response to therapy. Routine screening is also advised for people over a certain age, particularly those with a history of smoking or metabolic disorders. Early identification of risk factors through this panel allows for timely intervention, reducing the likelihood of severe cardiac events.

What the Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel Checks For

The Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel evaluates multiple components that are crucial for assessing cardiovascular health. Each of the tests included provides valuable insight into different aspects of heart and vascular function, aiding in a comprehensive risk assessment.

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

hs-CRP is a marker of systemic inflammation and is highly sensitive in detecting low-grade inflammation that may contribute to cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels of hs-CRP have been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, as inflammation plays a critical role in the formation of arterial plaque. Unlike standard CRP tests, hs-CRP provides more precise readings, allowing for better risk stratification in individuals with borderline cholesterol levels or other risk factors for heart disease.

Lipid Panel

The lipid panel measures various types of cholesterol and triglycerides, which are essential in evaluating cardiovascular risk. High levels of cholesterol and imbalances in lipoproteins contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, leading to plaque buildup in the arteries and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

  • Total Cholesterol: This measures the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, including both low-density and high-density lipoproteins. An elevated total cholesterol level is a significant risk factor for heart disease.

  • HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein): Often referred to as "good cholesterol," HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, preventing plaque buildup in the arteries. Higher levels are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

  • LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Known as "bad cholesterol," LDL carries cholesterol to the arteries, where it can accumulate and form plaques. High LDL levels are strongly linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

  • Non-HDL Cholesterol: This value includes all cholesterol types except HDL and is considered a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk.

  • Triglycerides: These are a type of fat found in the blood. High levels of triglycerides can contribute to atherosclerosis and increase the risk of heart disease, especially in combination with high LDL and low HDL levels.

Lipoprotein (a)

Lipoprotein (a) is a genetically influenced biomarker that plays a role in cardiovascular risk assessment. Elevated levels of lipoprotein (a) are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Unlike other lipid markers, lipoprotein (a) levels remain relatively stable throughout life and are less influenced by diet and lifestyle, making it a valuable indicator for individuals with a family history of cardiovascular disease.

Conditions and Diseases Detected by the Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel

The Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel aids in the detection and assessment of various cardiovascular conditions and related disorders. Identifying these conditions early allows for timely interventions that can reduce the risk of severe cardiac events.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty plaques in the arteries, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The lipid panel detects high LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which are key contributors to plaque formation, while hs-CRP provides insight into underlying inflammation that exacerbates the condition.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

CAD occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, reducing oxygen supply to the heart. The Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel helps identify elevated cholesterol levels, lipoprotein (a), and inflammatory markers that signal an increased risk for CAD.

Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often due to a rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque. High LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, and elevated hs-CRP levels are key risk factors that the panel evaluates to assess an individual’s likelihood of experiencing a cardiac event.

Stroke

A stroke can occur due to a blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the brain, often caused by atherosclerosis. The panel detects high lipid levels and inflammatory markers, which contribute to the narrowing and clotting of blood vessels leading to stroke.

Familial Hypercholesterolemia

This genetic disorder results in extremely high cholesterol levels from an early age, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Lipid panel testing, particularly LDL and total cholesterol levels, helps in diagnosing and managing this condition.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the Results for Treatment and Monitoring

The results of the Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel play a crucial role in guiding treatment and monitoring strategies for various cardiovascular conditions. Based on the findings, healthcare providers may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or more intensive interventions.

Atherosclerosis

For patients with elevated LDL cholesterol and hs-CRP levels indicative of atherosclerosis, treatment may involve cholesterol-lowering medications such as statins, dietary modifications, and increased physical activity to slow plaque progression and reduce inflammation.

Coronary Artery Disease

If results indicate a high risk of CAD, a healthcare provider may prescribe lipid-lowering drugs, antiplatelet therapy, or lifestyle changes to prevent further arterial blockage. Monitoring lipid levels regularly helps track treatment effectiveness.

Myocardial Infarction Prevention

Individuals with elevated cholesterol and hs-CRP levels may be advised to adopt aggressive cholesterol management strategies, including the use of statins, blood pressure control, and smoking cessation to lower heart attack risk.

Stroke Prevention

If lipid panel and hs-CRP results indicate an increased stroke risk, interventions such as anticoagulant therapy, blood pressure management, and dietary changes may be implemented to prevent clot formation and arterial blockage.

Familial Hypercholesterolemia Management

For those diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia, early and aggressive cholesterol-lowering therapies, including PCSK9 inhibitors or combination drug therapy, are critical in reducing cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion

The Coronary Risk Blood Test Panel is an essential tool in cardiovascular risk assessment, providing comprehensive insight into cholesterol levels, inflammation, and genetic lipid abnormalities. By identifying key risk factors, this panel enables healthcare providers to implement preventive measures, guide treatment decisions, and monitor patient progress over time. Early detection and proactive management of cardiovascular risk can significantly reduce the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other serious conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

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