[Role of lipoprotein(a) in the progression of atherosclerosis: implication of localization in atherosclerotic lesions and clinical usefulness of serum level determination].

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is generally regarded as an atherogenic lipoprotein because so much previous cross-sectional research has shown a tight connection between its plasma level and development of atherosclerosis. Previous studies on Lp(a) concerning its localization in atherosclerotic lesions and the clinical usefulness of serum level determination were reviewed, and the role of Lp(a) in the progression of atherosclerosis was discussed. In addition to its experimental and biophysiological relevance, clinicoepidemiological and socioeconomical consideration is becoming necessary for the clinicopathologist to evaluate the usefulness of blood Lp(a) measurement. In the clinicopathological field, much interest has been concentrated on the standardization of Lp(a) measurement because many methods have previously been applied to measure the blood Lp(a) concentration, and many problems concerning Lp(a) measurement have been raised. Future results from randomized or cohort studies in Japanese populations on Lp(a) will provide firmer evidence for the clinical usefulness of Lp(a) measurement.