Apolipoprotein B · high result
What does a high Apolipoprotein B mean?
Short answer
ApoB counts the number of atherogenic particles (LDL, VLDL, IDL, Lp(a)) and predicts cardiovascular risk better than LDL cholesterol, especially when triglycerides are high or LDL looks 'normal'. Below about 90 mg/dL is desirable for most adults; below 65–80 for people at high risk. Elevated ApoB has the same drivers as LDL — genetics, diet, weight, insulin resistance, hypothyroidism.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for Apolipoprotein B?
- age 18+: 0.000 – 90.0 mg/dL
Above 90 mg/dL is associated with increased cardiovascular risk; above 130 mg/dL is high.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Apolipoprotein B biomarker page.
What are the common causes of high Apolipoprotein B?
- Genetics, including familial hypercholesterolemia
- Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome (many small LDL particles)
- Diet, excess weight
- Hypothyroidism, kidney disease
- Medications that raise LDL
What symptoms go with high Apolipoprotein B?
- None
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Lipoprotein(a) once — it contributes to ApoB and is inherited
- TSH, A1c, fasting insulin
- Cardiovascular risk discussion; ApoB is a treatment target in many guidelines
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ($26.99), TSH + Free T4 ($27.99).
How do you recheck Apolipoprotein B?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Lipid Panel | Test · 8 biomarkers | $90.99 | Yes | 3–5 business days |
Common questions
My LDL is fine but ApoB is high. Which matters?
ApoB. A discordance like that usually means many small, dense LDL particles — typical of insulin resistance — and the particle count is what predicts risk.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.