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Apolipoprotein B (apo B)

Lipid Profile · also called ApoB-100, Apo B

What it measures

Each atherogenic lipoprotein particle carries one apo B molecule, so apo B measures the number of these particles. It refines risk assessment in diabetes, obesity and high triglycerides.

Specimen and preparation

Specimen: Serum or lithium-heparin plasma
Tube: Gold top
Preparation: Fasting not required.

Reference range

Group	Range
Desirable	<90 mg/dL
High risk target	<65–80 mg/dL
High	≥130 mg/dL

Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.

Causes of high values

Familial hypercholesterolaemia
Familial combined hyperlipidaemia
Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
Hypothyroidism
Nephrotic syndrome

Causes of low values

Lipid-lowering therapy
Abetalipoproteinaemia or hypobetalipoproteinaemia
Hyperthyroidism

Method

Immunoturbidimetry or nephelometry

Good to know

Apo B above 130 mg/dL corresponds to LDL of about 160 mg/dL and is a risk-enhancing factor.

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