Randomized Controlled Trial of Lipid Apheresis in Patients With Elevated Lipoprotein(a)

Lipoprotein(a) \[Lp(a)\] is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Non-medical treatment measures (e.g. dietary therapy or weight loss) can hardly influence Lp(a) plasma concentrations. Drug therapy has only limited influence, e.g. treatment with niacin. Statins are usually without effect. Lipid apheresis is the only treatment known to lower elevated Lp(a) levels in a relevant way. In patients with pronounced elevation of Lp(a) and normal LDL cholesterol levels, who suffer from progressive cardiovascular disease, the treatment with lipid apheresis seems to be a last-resort treatment option. The current trial will evaluate the effectiveness of lipid apheresis on cardioavascular endpoints.