How to Get an ApoB and Lp(a) Test

A standard panel measures total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides, and usually calculates LDL-C from them. ApoB and Lp(a) are different measurements that the lab runs only when someone orders them. They can come from the same blood draw as your panel.

The 2026 ACC/AHA guideline recommends measuring Lp(a) at least once in every adult. It calls ApoB reasonable for people on cholesterol treatment, particularly with heart disease, diabetes, kidney and metabolic conditions, or high triglycerides.

Name them so they land on the lab order. For example: "At my next blood draw, could you add an apolipoprotein B and a lipoprotein(a) to my lipid panel? The 2026 ACC/AHA guideline recommends checking Lp(a) once in every adult, and I'd like ApoB for a fuller picture of my risk."

Mention a family history of early heart disease, diabetes, high triglycerides, or a current cholesterol medicine. Insurers look for documented medical reasons like these.

In most states, yes. Direct-to-consumer services let you buy online, a clinician working with the service approves the order, and you get your blood drawn at a local lab. Availability varies by state. These services report results without setting up treatment, so a high number still needs a clinician to act on it.

Prices as of October 2026 (they change, and both sites run sales):

Often, when a clinician orders the test for a documented medical reason. Coverage varies by plan. Aetna, for example, covers a one-time Lp(a) test for adults 19 and older (Clinical Policy Bulletin 0381, checked October 2026). ApoB coverage is narrower, usually for people already on stable cholesterol treatment with a high-risk condition.

Ask your plan about CPT 82172 (ApoB) and CPT 83695 (Lp(a)). Direct-to-consumer tests are usually self-pay, and Labcorp OnDemand and Quest Health accept HSA and FSA cards.

Usually no. Neither test changes much after a meal. Some labs still ask for a fast, especially for bundled tests, so follow your order. Labcorp OnDemand asks for a 12 to 14 hour fast for its standalone ApoB test and lists no preparation for Lp(a).

Test Lp(a) once for most adults, since genes set it and the 2026 guideline notes that repeat testing is generally unnecessary. Test ApoB as often as treatment needs: a baseline, then a recheck after each medicine change.

For high Lp(a), the EAS and NLA statements recommend earlier, more intensive management of other risk factors, mainly lowering LDL-C and ApoB further. Close relatives are worth testing too. The FDA has yet to approve a medicine made to lower Lp(a).

For high ApoB, diet changes help, and many people also need prescription medicine to close the gap. Take your result to your clinician and ask what goal fits your overall risk.