Testing

Advanced Lipid Panel and Omega-3

ApoB, Lp(a), particle count and the omega-3 index, beyond basic cholesterol.

  • OrderedAfter consultation
  • ResultsRead in a separate session
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Advanced Lipid Panel and Omega-3 at iLIV Clinic Damansara Perdana
Quick Answer

A basic lipid profile gives totals. The advanced panel tells you particle number and size, which track risk more closely.

A basic lipid profile gives you four numbers: total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. An advanced lipid panel goes further by measuring particle number and size, because two people with identical LDL can carry very different cardiovascular risk depending on how many particles carry that cholesterol.

The omega-3 index and why we measure it

The omega-3 index shows what percentage of the fatty acids in your red cell membranes are EPA and DHA. It reflects the last three to four months of intake rather than yesterday. Low levels are common in populations that eat little oily fish. This number is useful precisely because you can change it through diet or supplements, then measure again to confirm the change actually happened.

How to prepare for an advanced lipid panel

Fast nine to twelve hours for accurate triglycerides. ApoB and Lp(a) do not need fasting, although we draw everything at once to reduce the number of needle sticks. Avoid alcohol for twenty-four hours beforehand, since it raises triglycerides markedly. If you have just recovered from a fever or infection, wait two weeks, because acute inflammation shifts lipid levels.

The details

Ordered
After consultation
Results read
Separate session
Branch
Damansara Perdana
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Interpretation

How we use advanced lipid panel results

We set your ApoB target according to overall risk rather than applying one number to everyone. We read results alongside blood pressure, smoking status, family history and a metabolic assessment. For a radiation-free cardiac check, see MCG cardiac screening, and read the heart health pathway. Malaysian lipid guidance comes from the Ministry of Health Malaysia. Book a consultation.

Why a basic panel is not enough

The LDL on a standard report counts cholesterol inside LDL particles, not the particles themselves. Someone can have an LDL of 3.0 carried by a few large particles, or the same 3.0 carried by many small dense ones. The second case carries higher risk, since every particle is another chance to enter the artery wall. ApoB counts those particles directly.

  • ApoB: atherogenic particle count, the most consistent risk marker
  • Lp(a): a genetic risk factor, worth measuring once in a lifetime
  • Triglyceride to HDL ratio: a proxy for insulin resistance
  • Omega-3 index: EPA and DHA as a percentage of red cell membrane
  • hs-CRP: low-grade inflammation

Frequently Asked

What is the difference between ApoB and LDL?

LDL measures cholesterol inside particles. ApoB counts the particles, which tracks risk more consistently.

How many times should I measure Lp(a)?

Once in a lifetime is enough. It is genetically set and barely changes.

Do I need to fast?

Yes, nine to twelve hours for accurate triglycerides. Plain water is allowed.

Still have questions?
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iLIV
Updated 4 September 2026.
Information on this page is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Eligibility for any treatment is determined after consultation and testing.

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Damansara Perdana · I-City, Shah Alam · +60 14-801 6493

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