Low-density lipoprotein apheresis is effective in reducing lipoprotein(a) levels and in improving symptoms in a patient with refractory angina secondary to accelerated coronary artery disease

Coronary artery disease remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. High plasma Lp(a) concentrations are related to the risk of cardiovascular disease, but Lp(a) is rarely assayed and treated. We present the case of a 50-year-old gentleman with refractory angina, whose corollary disease continued to progress despite optimal medical and surgical therapy. We show that the aggressive reduction of Lp(a) successfully ameliorated the progression of coronary stenosis and provides effective and durable relief of symptoms. (C) 2012 National Lipid Association. All rights reserved.