Short answer: apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is a protein found once on every LDL, VLDL, IDL and Lp(a) particle. Measuring it counts the cholesterol-carrying particles, while LDL cholesterol measures how much cholesterol they hold. The two usually agree, but not always, which is why some guidelines use ApoB alongside the lipid panel. g/L = mg/dL × 0.01.
At a glance
| Measures | Apolipoprotein B in serum or plasma: one per atherogenic particle |
|---|---|
| Units | mg/dL (US) or g/L (Europe); 100 mg/dL = 1.0 g/L |
| LOINC | 1884-6 |
| Fasting | Usually not needed |
| Related | LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, Lp(a) |
| Keep | Value, unit, range and date, next to your lipid panel |
What ApoB counts
Each particle that can carry cholesterol into the artery wall (LDL, VLDL, IDL and Lp(a)) has exactly one ApoB molecule. So ApoB is a particle count. When particles are small and numerous, LDL cholesterol can look moderate while ApoB is higher; this is more common with high triglycerides, diabetes or excess weight.
How the result is written on the report
| Result on the report | LOINC code | Usual unit | Also seen as |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apolipoprotein B, serum or plasma | 1884-6 | mg/dL | g/L (×0.01) |
g/L = mg/dL ÷ 100: 90 mg/dL = 0.90 g/L. Targets, when used, are set by your doctor according to your overall risk.
Keeping the results in your record
Keep ApoB next to your lipid panel and, if you have it, your Lp(a). Anpheros Daily keeps each with its unit and charts them over time; the lab results tracker charts one test without an account.
What this page does not do
It explains what the test is. It does not interpret your result, estimate your risk or recommend treatment.
Sources
- Mach F, et al. 2019 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias. European Heart Journal 2020. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehz455
Frequently asked questions
Is ApoB better than LDL cholesterol?
They measure different things: particle number versus cholesterol content. Many guidelines use LDL first and ApoB as an additional marker, especially when triglycerides are high.
Do I need to fast for an ApoB test?
Usually not. Follow your laboratory's instructions, especially if the lipid panel is drawn at the same time.
How do I convert ApoB from mg/dL to g/L?
Divide by 100. For example, 120 mg/dL is 1.20 g/L.
Is ApoB the same as Lp(a)?
No. Lp(a) particles contain ApoB, but ApoB also counts LDL, VLDL and IDL. Lp(a) is measured separately.
Try it in Anpheros Daily
Photograph your lab report and Anpheros Daily lines up each value with its reference range, so you can compare reports from different laboratories.
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