Apolipoprotein B100

Alternative names:

apoB100; apoprotein B100

What the risks are:

• excessive bleeding
• fainting or feeling lightheaded
• hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• infection (a slight risk anytime the skin is broken)
• multiple punctures to locate veins

Special considerations:

Unlike HDL and LDL measurements (which are indirect), apolipoprotein levels can be measured directly. This test may give a much more accurate picture of your health, including the risk for heart disease.

Lipoproteins are large complexes of molecules that transport lipids (primarily triglycerides and cholesterols) through the blood. Apolipoproteins are proteins on the surface of the lipoprotein complex that bind to specific enzymes or transport proteins on the cell membranes; this directs the lipoprotein to the proper site of metabolism. ApoB100 is in IDL (an intermediate form of lipoprotein) and LDL (low density lipoprotein).

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.