Complex lipids are a diverse class of metabolites that serve many functions and play an important role in the development of metabolic diseases, cancer, inflammation and central nervous system disorders. 

Advanced lipid testing is usually performed in addition to a standard cholesterol test or ‘lipid panel,’ which only measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. Advanced lipid tests utilize the very latest in medical advancements to provide a better measure of risk to optimize your cholesterol treatment.

This is what the test will measure:

ApoB

This cutting-edge way to assess for potentially life-threatening athersclerotic disease works by measuring the amount of apolipoprotein B in your blood. This is the main protein found in the low-density lipoproteins, LDL. LDL is known as ‘bad’ cholesterol because high levels of it can damage your heart and arteries. Assessing your ApoB levels provides a more in-depth cholesterol reading, which helps with risk prediction and early detection.

LDL

Also known as the ‘bad’ cholesterol, LDL is the main source of blockages in the arteries.

HDL

Considered the ‘good’ cholesterol, HDL helps get rid of LDL cholesterol.

Total cholesterol

The combined amount of LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol in your blood.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. Some studies show that high levels of triglycerides may increase the risk of heart disease, especially in women.