Lipoprotein apheresis for the treatment of elevated circulating levels of lipoprotein(a): a critical literature review.

ABSTRACT: Lipoprotein(a), which consists of a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particle linked to an apolipoprotein(a) moiety, is currently considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease due to its atherogenic (LDL-like) and prothrombotic (plasminogen-like) properties. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current and newer therapies for lowering increased lipoprotein(a) levels, focusing on lipoprotein apheresis. After a systematic literature search, we identified ten studies which, overall, documented that lipoprotein apheresis is effective in reducing increased lipoprotein(a) levels and cardiovascular events.

SUBMITTER: Franchini M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5016300 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature