Ulta Lab Tests

Inflammation & Vascular Health Panel

Blood, Varied
Phlebotomist

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Apolipoprotein B Cardio IQ, Cardio IQ Apolipoprotein B

Apolipoprotein B

Also known as: Factor I, Fibrinogen, Fibrinogen Activity Clauss

Fibrinogen Activity,

Fibrinogen is a protein produced by the liver. This protein helps stop bleeding by helping blood clots to form. A blood test can be done to tell how much fibrinogen you have in the blood.

Also known as: Cardio IQ hs-CRP , hsCRP Cardio IQ

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Cardio IQ Lipid Panel, Lipid Panel Cardio IQ, Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.

Also known as: Cardio IQ Lipoprotein (a), Lipoprotein a Cardio IQ

Lipoprotein (A)

Lipoprotein-a, or Lp(a) are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. A high level of Lp(a) is considered a risk factor for heart disease. High levels of lipoproteins can increase the risk of heart disease. The test is done to check your risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.

Also known as: Ion Mobility, Cardio IQ Lipoprotein Fractionation, Ion Mobility , HDL Subfractions, IDL Subfractions, LDL Subfractions, Lipoprotein Fraction, Lipoprotein Fractionation, Lipoprotein Fractionation Ion Mobility Cardio IQ, Quest Diagnostics has replaced the VAP® Cholesterol Test with Lipoprotein Fractionation, Ion Mobility, Cardio IQ™ test

HDL Large

LDL Medium

LDL Particle Number

LDL Pattern

LDL Peak Size

LDL Small

*Important Information on Lab Test Processing Times: Ulta Lab Tests is committed to informing you about the processing times for your lab tests processed through a national lab. Please note that the estimated processing time for each test, indicated in business days, is based on data from the past 30 days across the 13 laboratories for each test. These estimates are intended to serve as a guide and are not guarantees. Factors such as laboratory workload, weather conditions, holidays, and the need for additional testing or maintenance can influence actual processing times. We aim to offer estimates to help you plan accordingly. Please understand that these times may vary, and processing times are not guaranteed. Thank you for choosing Ulta Lab Tests for your laboratory needs.

The Inflammation & Vascular Health Panel panel contains 6 tests with 16 biomarkers .

Heart disease doesn’t begin with chest pain — it begins silently, at the cellular and vascular level, where inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid imbalance cause the gradual damage that leads to atherosclerosis.

The Cardiometabolic Inflammation & Vascular Health Panel goes far beyond a standard cholesterol test.
It evaluates the quality, size, and inflammatory activity of lipoproteins, revealing risks that traditional lipid panels often miss.

By measuring ApoB, Lp(a), LDL particle size, hs-CRP, and fibrinogen, this panel provides a comprehensive picture of your cardiovascular and metabolic health — helping you and your provider detect hidden inflammation, fine-tune prevention, and optimize longevity.

Why This Panel Matters

Most cardiovascular events occur in people with “normal” cholesterol levels because inflammation and particle number, not total cholesterol, drive risk.
This advanced panel identifies whether your lipoproteins are oxidized, inflamed, or genetically elevated, enabling truly personalized heart and vascular care.

You’ll gain insights into:

  • Endothelial inflammation (hs-CRP and fibrinogen)
  • Atherogenic particle count (ApoB)
  • Genetic lipid risk (Lp(a))
  • Lipoprotein particle quality (LDL size and density)
  • Inflammatory lipid oxidation (NF-κB–driven atherogenesis)

Tests Included in This Panel (Quest Diagnostics)

Test Name

Quest Code

Clinical Significance & Benefits

Cardio IQ® Advanced Lipid Panel + Inflammation Panel

91716, 91604, 91737 and 461

Provides a complete view of lipid particle size, density, and inflammation. Includes LDL particle size, HDL function, ApoB, Lp(a), hs-CRP, and fibrinogen. Identifies subtle cardiometabolic risks that traditional cholesterol panels miss.

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]

91729

A genetically inherited lipoprotein associated with early atherosclerosis, endothelial inflammation, and poor response to statins. Elevated Lp(a) increases clot risk and oxidative lipid stress — particularly when combined with inflammation or high ApoB.

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

91726

Each atherogenic particle (LDL, VLDL, IDL) carries one ApoB molecule. ApoB therefore reflects the true number of particles that can enter the arterial wall — a stronger predictor of heart disease than LDL-C. Elevated ApoB often indicates NF-κB-mediated lipid oxidation and inflammation.

Clinical Applications & Benefits

This panel allows clinicians and patients to:

  • Detect early vascular inflammation long before symptoms appear
  • Differentiate between safe and dangerous cholesterol patterns (particle number vs. size)
  • Identify genetic lipid risks that influence treatment decisions
  • Monitor response to lifestyle, dietary, or statin therapy
  • Integrate results into broader inflammation, metabolic, and longevity strategies

How to Use Your Results

If hs-CRP and fibrinogen are elevated:

These indicate active inflammation in blood vessels — often due to poor diet, stress, or chronic disease.
Action: Adopt an anti-inflammatory lifestyle: Mediterranean or plant-forward diet, weight control, daily movement, improved sleep, and stress management.

If ApoB is high but LDL-C appears normal:

This signals an excess number of small, dense LDL particles — highly atherogenic.
Action: Focus on reducing refined carbs, improving insulin sensitivity, and increasing soluble fiber and omega-3 intake.

If Lp(a) is elevated:

This is a genetic marker, not easily changed by diet or statins.
Action: Manage overall inflammation (hs-CRP, fibrinogen, ApoB) aggressively; consider niacin or PCSK9 inhibitors under physician guidance.

Who Should Consider This Panel

  • Anyone with a family history of heart disease or stroke
  • Patients with normal cholesterol but elevated inflammation markers
  • Individuals with metabolic syndrome, diabetes, or obesity
  • Those on statins who wish to assess ApoB and CoQ10 impact
  • Adults pursuing preventive cardiometabolic or longevity programs

Sample Requirements & Preparation

  • Specimen: Blood draw at any Quest Diagnostics location
  • Fasting: 9–12 hours recommended
  • Turnaround Time: Results available within 3–5 business days
  • Medication Note: Inform your provider of any lipid-lowering medications, as these can affect results.

Why Choose Ulta Lab Tests

  • Physician-authorized orders and review for every test
  • Convenient Quest Diagnostics locations nationwide
  • Affordable pricing with no insurance required
  • Fast online results in your secure Ulta Lab Tests dashboard

Symptoms or Risk Factors for Hidden Cardiometabolic Inflammation

  • Family history of premature heart disease
  • Elevated blood pressure or waist circumference
  • Fatigue after meals or poor recovery from exercise
  • Insulin resistance or high fasting insulin
  • Elevated triglycerides, low HDL, or metabolic syndrome
  • Persistent inflammation or autoimmune disease

Here’s a complete, in-depth Results Interpretation Guide for your Cardiometabolic Inflammation & Vascular Health Panel, built in the same format as your other Ulta Lab Tests guides.
It’s designed for dual use — printable PDF and web display — with clear clinical ranges, interpretation notes, and actionable recommendations.

Results Interpretation Guide

Cardiometabolic Inflammation & Vascular Health Panel

(Quest Diagnostics — Cardio IQ® Testing)

Understanding Your Results

This panel integrates advanced lipid and inflammatory biomarkers to uncover early vascular risk that traditional cholesterol panels miss.
By examining particle number (ApoB), genetic risk (Lp[a]), and inflammatory status (hs-CRP and fibrinogen), you and your clinician can identify silent atherosclerotic activity, personalize therapy, and track true cardiovascular healing or progression.

Key Biomarkers and Target Ranges

Marker

Typical Reference Range

Optimal Target

Clinical Meaning

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

52 – 109 mg/dL

< 80 mg/dL(ideal < 70 for high-risk patients)

Reflects the number of atherogenic particles (LDL, VLDL, IDL). High ApoB = more plaque-forming particles, even if LDL-C appears “normal.”

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]

< 30 mg/dL (varies by assay)

< 14 mg/dL

Genetically determined; promotes clotting and arterial inflammation. Elevated levels (≥ 50 mg/dL) raise lifetime heart-attack and stroke risk independent of cholesterol.

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

0.0 – 3.0 mg/L

< 1.0 mg/L

Measures vascular inflammation. Even mild elevations (1–3 mg/L) predict endothelial damage and higher event risk.

Fibrinogen Activity

200 – 400 mg/dL

200 – 300 mg/dL

Indicates both inflammation and clot tendency. High fibrinogen thickens blood, impairs flow, and elevates thrombosis risk.

LDL Particle Size & Density (Cardio IQ®)

Pattern A (large buoyant) vs Pattern B (small dense)

Pattern A preferred

Small, dense LDL (Pattern B) oxidizes easily, penetrates artery walls, and triggers plaque formation.

How to Interpret Patterns

1 · Inflammation ( hs-CRP + Fibrinogen )

  • High hs-CRP (> 2 mg/L) and/or Fibrinogen > 350 mg/dL → active vascular inflammation.
  • Often linked to poor diet, obesity, smoking, stress, infection, or autoimmune activity.
    Action Plan:
    Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet (Mediterranean or plant-forward), lose visceral fat, manage stress, and ensure omega-3 intake.

2 · ApoB — Particle Number

  • Elevated ApoB = excess small, dense LDL particles capable of penetrating vessel walls.
  • Stronger predictor of heart events than LDL-C.
    Action Plan:
  • Lower refined carbs and added sugars.
  • Increase soluble fiber, omega-3s, and physical activity.
  • If on statins, discuss intensification or PCSK9 therapy with your clinician.

3 · Lipoprotein(a) — Genetic Risk

  • Elevated Lp(a) is largely inherited; diet has little impact.
  • Exacerbates inflammation and clot formation when hs-CRP or ApoB are high.
    Action Plan:
    Aggressively control other modifiable markers (ApoB, hs-CRP, blood pressure).
    Consider niacin or PCSK9 inhibitors under provider guidance.

4 · LDL Particle Size

  • Pattern A (large, buoyant): healthier profile, less oxidation.
  • Pattern B (small, dense): strongly atherogenic and oxidation-prone.
    Action Plan:
  • Reduce processed carbs; emphasize healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, avocado).
  • Improve insulin sensitivity through exercise and weight management.

How Markers Work Together

Combined Pattern

Interpretation & Implication

High ApoB + High hs-CRP

Active atherosclerosis and endothelial inflammation — urgent risk reduction needed.

High Lp(a) + High Fibrinogen

Genetic lipoprotein + clotting risk; focus on inflammation control and blood viscosity.

Normal LDL-C + High ApoB

“Hidden” particle overload despite normal cholesterol — tighten metabolic control.

High hs-CRP + Low CoQ10 (from Oxidative Stress Panel)

Inflammatory oxidative damage to vessels and mitochondria; consider antioxidant support.

Improvement Strategies

Focus Area

Interventions

Nutrition

Mediterranean diet with omega-3-rich fish, olive oil, nuts, and vegetables. Reduce sugar, processed meats, and refined grains.

Supplements (to discuss with clinician)

Omega-3 EPA/DHA, CoQ10, curcumin, berberine, niacin (for Lp[a]), plant sterols (for ApoB).

Lifestyle

150 min/week of aerobic activity + strength training. Manage stress and sleep 7–9 hrs/night.

Medical Management

Statins for ApoB > 80 mg/dL or Pattern B; PCSK9 inhibitors or aspirin for high Lp(a) per clinician.

Re-Testing Recommendations

Purpose

Interval

After starting therapy or major diet/lifestyle change

8 – 12 weeks

Ongoing preventive monitoring

Every 6 – 12 months

High-risk or post-event patients

Every 3 – 6 months until stable

When to Seek Medical Follow-Up

  • Persistent ApoB > 100 mg/dL or Lp(a) > 50 mg/dL
  • hs-CRP > 3 mg/L or fibrinogen > 400 mg/dL after lifestyle changes
  • Family history of early heart attack or stroke
  • Unexplained fatigue, chest pressure, or poor exercise tolerance

Complementary Panels

  • Cellular Inflammation & NF-κB Control Panel — detects upstream drivers of vascular inflammation.
  • Oxidative Stress & Antioxidant Defense Panel — assesses oxidative damage to vessels and lipids.
  • Metabolic Resilience & Insulin Sensitivity Panel — links insulin resistance to lipid oxidation and ApoB elevation.

Key Takeaway

Cardiometabolic disease begins long before symptoms appear.
By tracking ApoB, Lp(a), hs-CRP, and fibrinogen, you can detect inflammation, prevent plaque formation, and protect your heart and arteries for life.

Measure → Understand → Act → Re-Test
Science-based insights for lifelong cardiovascular resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How is this different from a standard cholesterol test?
Traditional lipid panels measure only cholesterol levels. The Cardio IQ® Advanced Panel analyzes particle number, size, and inflammatory activity, providing a far more accurate cardiovascular risk profile.

Q2: Why are ApoB and Lp(a) important?
ApoB measures the number of atherogenic particles; Lp(a) identifies a genetic risk factor for heart disease. Together, they predict events far better than total cholesterol.

Q3: What does inflammation have to do with heart disease?
Inflammation (driven by NF-κB and cytokines) damages vessel linings, allowing oxidized lipids to enter and form plaque. Detecting inflammation early helps prevent this cascade.

Q4: How often should I repeat this panel?
For active monitoring or lifestyle interventions, re-test every 3–6 months. For ongoing preventive care, test annually or as advised by your provider.

Q5: Can I use these results to track therapy progress?
Yes — these markers are highly responsive to diet, exercise, stress reduction, and certain medications. Improvements in ApoB, hs-CRP, and fibrinogen often parallel better cardiovascular outcomes.

Complementary Panels

  • Cellular Inflammation & NF-κB Control Panel – assess underlying inflammation that drives atherosclerosis
  • Oxidative Stress & Antioxidant Defense Panel – evaluate oxidative damage to lipids and vessels
  • Metabolic Resilience & Insulin Sensitivity Panel – measure glucose, A1c, and insulin for full cardiometabolic insight
  • Cellular Aging & Regeneration Panel – link vascular health to biological aging

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