[Lipoprotein (a)--a further risk factor in arteriosclerosis?].

Epidemiological studies have identified lipoprotein (a), which has been known since 1963, but has received attention only recently, as a further risk factor for premature arteriosclerosis. This substance is similar to low-density lipoprotein, but it's serum concentration (and thus the increase in risk) is genetically determined and highly variable from one individual to another. The usual dietary and drug measures have only little effect on lipoprotein (a) serum levels. Although the physiological significance of lipoprotein (a) is unknown, it shows great homology to plasminogen, and thus might represent a link between arteriosclerosis and thrombosis.