The lipid profile comprises a number of blood tests that include high-density lipoprotein (HDL), total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). These tests are done in order to determine the possibility of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Further Explanation:
The coronary arteries are the important blood vessels that transport oxygen, nutrients, and blood to the heart. The damage such as deposition of fatty plaques and cholesterol in the arteries results in CAD. It leads to narrowing of the coronary arteries which makes them hardened.
The formation of plaques obstructs the flow of blood into the muscles of the heart due to clogging in the arteries. Therefore, the blood supply becomes inadequate and the heart does not get enough nutrients and oxygen in order to work efficiently. This might cause angina which is chest pain. A heart attack might also occur when the heart's blood supply is less than the energy demands of it.
The abnormalities in the lipid components of the body are screened through lipid panel or lipid profile. The blood tests under lipid profile verify the number of triglycerides and cholesterol in the body. The cholesterol is carried to and from the cells through LDL and HDL. LDL is regarded as bad cholesterol while HDL is good cholesterol. The fat deposition in the arteries is contributed by LDL which enhances the chances of heart disease as it results in narrowing of the arteries. HDL on the other hand transports LDL into the liver, away from the heart. LDL once in the liver is degraded and excreted out of the body.
The most common fats are triglycerides which store the energy in the body. A high amount of triglycerides along with LDL and HDL increases the possibility of heart diseases as they accumulate within the arteries and block the blood supply to the heart.
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Answer Details:
Grade: Senior School
Subject: Biology
Chapter: Lipid Profile
Keywords:
Coronary artery disease, lipids, lipid profile, lipid panel, cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, blood tests, heart attack, artery, coronary artery, angina, chest pain.