Lp(a) is a genetically inherited lipoprotein and a common independent risk factor for heart disease. Lp(a) is made up of two major proteins: apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] and apolipoprotein B (apoB)-100. Although Lp(a) and (LDL), or 'bad' cholesterol, both contain apoB particles, they are different lipoproteins with unique characteristics. Similar to Lp(a), high apoB numbers are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Ask your doctor if ordering a lab test to measure your apoB numbers is right for you., Various ratios are possible, but 2 measurements, apolipoprotein B (apo B) and lipoprotein (a), add special value. Apo B provides a measure of the atherogenic particles in the blood that carry apo B., Lp (a) is made up of two major proteins: apolipoprotein (a) [apo (a)] and apolipoprotein B (apoB)-100. Although Lp (a) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or 'bad' cholesterol, both contain apoB particles, they are different lipoproteins with unique characteristics..