@Article{Szczupak2026,
journal="Medical Studies/Studia Medyczne",
issn="1899-1874",
year="2026",
title="Lipoprotein(a) level assessment in internal medicine patients:
cardiological vs. non-cardiological admissions",
abstract="Abstract  Introduction: Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a lipid molecule similar to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Elevated Lp(a)  has been associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis.  Aim of the research: The purpose of the study is to perform a screening analysis of Lp(a) levels in patients admitted to  the Department of Internal Diseases, irrespective of whether their hospitalization is related to cardiological or non-cardiological  reasons.  Material and methods: The study included 104 patients admitted to the Department of Internal Diseases and Clinical  Pharmacology between 2 July 2021, and 3 December 2021, excluding those admitted due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Patients  were analysed based on the presence of atherosclerosis, Lp(a) levels, and other laboratory values. We divided them into two  groups: those admitted due to cardiological complaints and those admitted due to other reasons.  Results: A total of 46 patients were affiliated with the group admitted for cardiological issues, while 58 were assigned to  the group admitted for non-cardiological reasons. Upon further analysis of both groups regarding Lp(a) levels, it was  observed that 14 out of the 46 patients (30.4%) admitted for cardiological reasons exhibited elevated lipoprotein levels  ≥ 75 nmol/l. Thirteen (22.4%) out of the 58 patients in the group admitted for non-cardiological reasons demonstrated elevated  Lp(a) levels. Except for HDL, no significant differences were observed between patients hospitalised due to cardiological  and non-cardiological causes.  Conclusions: The findings emphasise the importance of universal Lp(a) screening, particularly in individuals without signs  of atherosclerosis, to identify those at risk.",
author="Szczupak, Piotr
and Pawlos, Agnieszka
and Krakowska, Natalia
and Broncel, Marlena
and Gorzelak-Pabiś, Paulina",
doi="10.5114/ms.2026.159720",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.5114/ms.2026.159720"
}