The Role of Lipoprotein(a) in the Development of Peripheral and Carotid Atherosclerosis

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] consists of an LDL-like particle in which the apolipoprotein B100 is covalently bound to apolipoprotein(a) by a single disulfide bond. Lp(a) is synthesized in the liver and its plasma concentration varies from 0 to 400 mg/dl. Increased level of Lp(a) is considered to be an independent risk factor of cardiovascular diseases and coronary heart disease. Data about the significance of hyperlipoproteinemia(a) in the development of atherosclerosis of peripheral (lower limbs) and carotid arteries remain controversial. This review is devoted to Lp(a), its relationship with atherosclerosis of different vascular beds, as well as modern possibilities of hyperlipoproteinemia(a) correction.