Lipidapheresis
Individuals with elevated blood lipids – especially Lipoprotein(a) and LDL cholesterol – are at significantly increased risk for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke, or aortic valve stenosis. Often, these conditions are caused by familial hypercholesterolemia or persistent lipid metabolism disorders.
When lifestyle changes and medications such as statins, ezetimibe, or PCSK9 inhibitors are insufficient or not tolerated, lipoprotein apheresis offers a highly effective and well-tolerated alternative.
What is Lipoprotein Apheresis?
Lipoprotein apheresis (also known as Lp(a) apheresis) is a specialized blood purification procedure that selectively removes harmful lipids such as Lipoprotein(a), LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides from the plasma.
This therapy can slow the progression of atherosclerosis and significantly reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events.
When is Lipoprotein Apheresis Recommended?
Lipoprotein apheresis is typically indicated for high-risk patients who do not achieve adequate results with standard lipid-lowering therapy:
- Established Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD)
Such as coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), cerebrovascular disease (CVD), or aortic valve stenosis, combined with elevated Lp(a) that persists despite optimal lifestyle and medication-based treatment. - Familial Hypercholesterolemia with LDL > 55 mg/dL
If LDL cholesterol levels remain high despite maximum lipid-lowering therapy, lipoprotein apheresis can help reduce cardiovascular risk in genetically predisposed individuals. - Statin Intolerance or Insufficient Response to Lipid-Lowering Therapy
For patients who cannot tolerate statins or do not reach target lipid levels, apheresis offers a safe and effective alternative to further reduce LDL-C and Lp(a).
Scientific Evidence for Lipoprotein Apheresis
Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of lipoprotein apheresis in reducing Lp(a) and LDL cholesterol in high-risk cardiovascular patients:
““It was concluded that lipoprotein apheresis is a safe and effective technique that could be considered in the management of hypercholesterolemia and future risk”
Raina R, et al. Role of Lipoprotein Apheresis in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Reduction. Blood Purif. 2019
“Lipoprotein apheresis not only reduces LDL-C and Lp(a) levels, but also inflammatory and coagulation markers. It is both anti-atherosclerotic and anti-thrombotic – making it an ideal option to reduce MACE and MANCE.”
Schettler, V.J.J., et al. Lipoprotein apheresis is an optimal therapeutic option to reduce increased Lp(a) levels. Clin Res 2019
Who Can Benefit from Lipoprotein Apheresis?
- Elevated Lp(a) despite diet, exercise, and medication
- Familial hypercholesterolemia with LDL > 55 mg/dL
- Intolerance to statins or insufficient response to lipid-lowering therapy
- Established cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) with persistent lipid abnormalities