The Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) Blood Test measures ApoB, the main protein found on atherogenic (“bad”) cholesterol particles such as LDL and VLDL. It is a powerful marker for cardiovascular risk, often more predictive than LDL cholesterol alone. Testing is performed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with an optional GP consultation.

What is an Apolipoprotein B Blood Test?

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is present on every atherogenic lipoprotein particle, including LDL, VLDL, IDL, and lipoprotein(a). Because each particle contains one ApoB molecule, ApoB directly reflects the number of cholesterol particles capable of causing plaque buildup in arteries.

Traditional LDL cholesterol measures the amount of cholesterol, not the number of particles. In many people—especially those with insulin resistance, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome—LDL cholesterol can appear normal while ApoB is elevated, masking true cardiovascular risk.

The ApoB test is widely used in advanced lipid profiling and is recommended by many international cardiovascular guidelines.

Benefits of the Apolipoprotein B Test

1. Most Accurate Marker of Atherogenic Risk
   Reflects the number of plaque-forming particles.
2. Superior to LDL Cholesterol Alone
   Identifies hidden risk when LDL appears normal.
3. Essential for Metabolic & Diabetes Risk
   Particularly valuable in insulin resistance and obesity.
4. Guides Personalised Lipid Treatment
   Helps tailor statins, lifestyle changes, or advanced therapy.
5. Improves Heart Attack & Stroke Prediction
   Strongly associated with cardiovascular events.
6. Simple, Low-Cost Blood Test
   High clinical value at an affordable price.
7. Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
   Results reviewed with a GP for personalised advice.

Why Do I Need an Apolipoprotein B Test?

You may benefit from an ApoB test if you:

• Have a family history of heart disease
• Have diabetes, insulin resistance, or metabolic syndrome
• Have borderline or conflicting cholesterol results
• Want the most accurate cardiovascular risk assessment
• Are monitoring lipid-lowering therapy

ApoB testing is especially useful if:

• LDL cholesterol is “normal” but risk remains high
• Triglycerides are elevated
• You want advanced heart health screening

Because heart disease often develops silently, ApoB testing enables earlier and more precise prevention.

How the Test Works

In-Clinic Testing at London Blood Tests

1. Book Your Appointment
• Online or phone booking
• No fasting required (fasting recommended if combined with a full lipid panel)
2. Pre-Test Review
• Inform the clinician of lipid medication or supplements.
3. Sample Collection
• Venous blood sample collected by a trained phlebotomist
• Takes 5–10 minutes
4. Laboratory Analysis
• Performed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory
5. Quality Control
• Results validated before release
6. Results Delivery
• Results typically available within 1–2 business days
7. Optional GP Consultation
• Review cardiovascular risk and treatment options

At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Phlebotomy – UK-Wide)

1. Book a Phlebotomist Visit
• Home or hotel blood draw arranged
2. Professional Collection
• Sample collected safely and discreetly
3. Secure Transport
• Sample couriered same day
4. Laboratory Testing
• Identical analysis to clinic testing
5. Results & Follow-Up
• Online results, GP review optional

Your Apolipoprotein B Results – Explained

ApoB results are reported in g/L.

Typical UK reference guidance:

• Optimal: < 0.80 g/L
• Moderate risk: 0.80 – 1.00 g/L
• High risk: > 1.00 g/L

Interpretation:

• High ApoB: increased risk of plaque formation and heart disease
• Normal ApoB: lower atherogenic particle burden
• Low ApoB: favourable cardiovascular profile

For best risk assessment, ApoB is often interpreted with ApoA1 and the ApoB:ApoA1 ratio.