Ulta Lab Tests

Cardio IQ Tests

Cardio IQ advanced lipid testing goes beyond a basic cholesterol panel to give a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk. These blood tests evaluate atherogenic particle number and type, genetically driven lipoproteins, and low-grade vascular inflammation—factors that standard LDL-C alone can miss.

Use Cardio IQ markers to refine screening, support a diagnostic work-up when risk seems higher than expected, and monitor response to lifestyle or therapy. Results help you and your clinician see whether particle burden (ApoB/LDL-P), lipoprotein(a), or inflammation is adding risk. Advanced testing improves risk stratification, but it does not diagnose heart disease or replace imaging (e.g., coronary calcium) when indicated.

Signs, Situations & Related Needs

  • Borderline or discordant results: LDL-C looks “okay” but strong family history or other risks suggest more testing.

  • Premature ASCVD in family: early heart attack, stroke, or calcific aortic valve disease in relatives.

  • High triglycerides / metabolic syndrome / diabetes: need particle-based risk detail beyond LDL-C.

  • Statin intolerance or limited response: refine the plan with particle number and Lp(a).

  • Suspected familial hypercholesterolemia (FH): very high LDL-C or tendon xanthomas.

  • Athlete or prevention-focused: want a more granular baseline to track over time.
    Seek urgent care for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or stroke-like symptoms.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Risk refine: quantify atherogenic particles (ApoB/LDL-P), detect genetic Lp(a) elevation, and assess inflammation (hs-CRP, Lp-PLA2) to sharpen risk estimates.

  • Guide follow-up: when standard lipids are borderline or discordant with personal/family risk, advanced markers can guide intensity of lifestyle or therapy.

  • Track trends: follow changes after nutrition, activity, weight management, or medication adjustments.

What testing cannot do

  • Confirm or rule out blocked arteries or active heart disease.

  • Replace guideline-directed assessments (blood pressure, diabetes screening, ASCVD risk tools) or imaging when appropriate.

  • Predict events with certainty; results must be interpreted with your clinician.

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): counts all atherogenic particles (VLDL remnants, IDL, LDL, Lp(a)); often superior to LDL-C when triglycerides are high or results are discordant.

  • LDL Particle Number/Size (LDL-P, subfractions): particle burden and distribution (small/dense vs. larger particles) that may add risk context.

  • Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]: genetically determined, mostly lifelong; adds risk for ASCVD and calcific aortic valve disease regardless of LDL-C. Not meaningfully changed by routine lifestyle measures.

  • Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) & HDL subfractions: context for HDL functionality; best interpreted with ApoB (ApoB/ApoA-I ratio).

  • Remnant cholesterol (RLP-C): cholesterol in triglyceride-rich remnants that may promote atherogenesis.

  • High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP): systemic low-grade inflammation associated with higher cardiovascular risk; trend over time.

  • Lp-PLA2 (activity or mass): enzyme linked to vascular inflammation; use alongside other risk markers.

  • Standard lipids (TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG) & Non-HDL-C: remain core measures and are included in many advanced panels.

Who Benefits & When to Consider Cardio IQ

Scenario Useful markers Why it helps
Family history of premature ASCVD Lp(a), ApoB, LDL-P Detect inherited contributors beyond LDL-C
Diabetes/metabolic syndrome, high TG ApoB, LDL-P, RLP-C, hs-CRP Clarify particle burden and residual risk
LDL-C “normal” but risk seems high ApoB, Lp(a), hs-CRP Uncover discordance and inflammatory risk
Statin intolerance/partial response ApoB, LDL-P, Lp(a) Gauge residual atherogenic particles
Suspected FH ApoB, LDL-P, Lp(a) Strengthen evidence for intensive management

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Choose your starting set: many begin with ApoB + Lp(a) added to a standard lipid panel; consider LDL-P/subfractions and hs-CRP.

  2. Prepare for accuracy: follow any fasting instructions; avoid intense exercise and heavy alcohol the day before; keep supplements consistent unless your order says to hold (biotin can affect some assays).

  3. Get your draw: simple blood test at a local patient service center; results post securely in your account.

  4. Review with your clinician: combine advanced markers with age, BP, diabetes status, smoking, family history, and (if available) coronary calcium.

  5. Set a tracking cadence: recheck at intervals your clinician recommends, especially after lifestyle or therapy changes.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • ApoB / LDL-P: higher values indicate more atherogenic particles; particularly informative when triglycerides are elevated or LDL-C seems “fine” but risk is high.

  • Lp(a): largely genetic and stable; a high result signals added lifetime risk and often prompts more aggressive risk-factor management.

  • hs-CRP: interpret trends; levels can rise temporarily with infection, injury, or hard training.

  • Subfractions/size: treat as contextual—particle number (ApoB/LDL-P) usually carries the most weight.
    Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional; do not start or stop medications without medical guidance.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Quick risk refinement: Standard Lipid Panel + ApoB + Lp(a)

  • Metabolic/discordant profile: Add LDL-P/subfractions, RLP-C, hs-CRP

  • Inflammation focus: hs-CRP ± Lp-PLA2 for vascular-inflammation context

  • Therapy follow-up: Recheck ApoB (and LDL-P if tracked) to confirm particle reduction

FAQs

Do I need to fast?
Follow your order. Some advanced lipid panels prefer fasting; ask if you’re unsure.

Is Lp(a) something I can lower with diet?
Lp(a) is genetically determined and usually stable. Lifestyle is still key for overall risk; discuss options with your clinician.

Which is more important—LDL-C or ApoB?
They often align, but ApoB directly reflects particle number and may be more informative when triglycerides are high or results seem discordant.

Can exercise raise hs-CRP?
Yes—hard sessions and acute illness can temporarily elevate hs-CRP. Test on a recovery day when possible.

How often should I repeat Cardio IQ markers?
Commonly every 3–6 months after changes, then less often once stable—timing is individualized.

Are these tests a substitute for heart imaging?
No. They refine risk; imaging (e.g., coronary calcium) and guideline care still matter.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Upward: Heart & Cardiovascular Tests Hub

  • Sideways: Lipid Tests • Cardiometabolic Health • Inflammation (hs-CRP) • Diabetes & Insulin Resistance • Genetic Heart Risk

  • Key Tests (downward): Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) • Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] • LDL Particle Number/Size (subfractions) • Remnant Cholesterol (RLP-C) • Apolipoprotein A-I • hs-CRP • Lp-PLA2 • Standard Lipid Panel

References

  • American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association — Cholesterol management and risk assessment guidelines.
  • National Lipid Association — Scientific statements on ApoB, Lp(a), and remnant cholesterol.
  • European Atherosclerosis Society — Consensus on Lp(a) and atherogenic lipoproteins.
  • AHA/CDC — Inflammation markers and cardiovascular risk guidance.
  • Clinical reviews on LDL particle metrics and residual risk.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Cardio IQ Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start by adding ApoB and Lp(a) to a standard lipid panel, then include LDL-P/subfractions, RLP-C, hs-CRP, or Lp-PLA2 as needed. Schedule a draw (fasting if instructed) and review results with your clinician to personalize prevention and follow-up.

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The Cardio IQ™ ASCVD Risk Panel with Score offers a comprehensive evaluation of heart health by measuring cholesterol, lipoprotein particle numbers, apolipoproteins, and inflammatory markers. Using this data, it calculates a 10-year ASCVD risk score to identify potential cardiovascular threats. This detailed profile helps uncover underlying factors driving atherosclerosis, supporting proactive prevention and personalized care strategies.

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The Cardio IQ™ Insulin Resistance Panel with Score Test measures markers of insulin resistance to evaluate glucose control, lipid metabolism, and cardiometabolic health. The score offers insight into type 2 diabetes risk, cardiovascular disease, and endocrine balance. This test supports monitoring of metabolic function, energy regulation, and systemic conditions tied to insulin resistance.

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The Cardio IQ™ Myeloperoxidase Test measures levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), an enzyme released by white blood cells linked to vascular inflammation and plaque instability. Elevated MPO is associated with increased risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, or atherosclerosis. Physicians use this test to evaluate cardiovascular risk, monitor arterial health, and guide prevention strategies for long-term heart health management.

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Also Known As: Cardio IQ™ MPO Test
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The Cardio IQ™ ApoE Genotype Test analyzes apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene variants linked to cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular risk. Results help assess risk for heart disease, hyperlipidemia, and Alzheimer’s disease. This genetic test guides personalized prevention and treatment strategies, including diet, lifestyle, and lipid-lowering therapies, supporting long-term cardiovascular and brain health.

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Also Known As: ApoE Cardiac Risk Test, ApoE Cardiovascular Disease Test, Apolipoprotein E Test, Apo E Test, ApoE Protein Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Apolipoprotein A1 Test measures ApoA1, the main protein in HDL cholesterol. Higher ApoA1 levels are generally linked to lower cardiovascular risk. This test helps evaluate heart health, lipid metabolism, and supports assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.

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Also Known As: Apo A1 Test, Apolipoprotein A-1 Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Apolipoprotein B Test measures ApoB, the main protein in LDL and other atherogenic lipoproteins. Elevated ApoB levels are linked to higher cardiovascular risk. This test provides a more precise assessment of heart disease risk than standard cholesterol tests and helps guide treatment decisions.

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Also Known As: Apo B Test, Apolipoprotein B-100 Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Apolipoprotein Evaluation Test measures both ApoA1, the main protein in HDL, and ApoB, the main protein in LDL and other atherogenic lipoproteins. The balance between these markers provides a detailed assessment of cardiovascular risk, lipid metabolism, and helps guide heart disease prevention and treatment.

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Also Known As: Apolipoprotein A1 and B Test, Apo A1 and B Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total Test measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, including HDL and LDL, to assess cardiovascular risk. High cholesterol is linked to heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis. Doctors use this test as part of advanced lipid testing to evaluate overall heart health, guide lifestyle or treatment decisions, and monitor patients with risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, or hypertension.

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Also Known As: Blood Cholesterol Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Direct LDL Test directly measures low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), the “bad cholesterol” linked to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Unlike calculated LDL, this test provides accurate results even with high triglycerides or non-fasting samples. Doctors use it to assess heart disease risk, guide therapy decisions, and monitor patients on lipid-lowering treatments to improve cardiovascular health outcomes.

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Also Known As: Direct LDL-C Test, Direct LDL Cholesterol Test, DLDL Test, LDL D Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Test evaluates fibrinogen concentration, a key protein that influences clotting and cardiovascular disease risk. It provides insight into vascular inflammation, atherosclerosis, and thrombotic events. This test helps identify factors that contribute to stroke, coronary artery disease, and systemic vascular complications, offering valuable information for assessing overall cardiovascular health.

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Also Known As: Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test
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The Cardio IQ™ HDL Cholesterol Test evaluates levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol that plays a critical role in heart health. Adequate HDL supports the removal of excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing plaque buildup in arteries. This test provides valuable insight into cardiovascular wellness, lipid balance, and overall risk of heart disease when combined with other lipid panel results.

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The Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test measures the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. It provides valuable information about long-term blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes.

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Also Known As: A1c Test, HbA1c Test, Glycated Hemoglobin Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Homocysteine Test measures homocysteine levels in the blood, an amino acid linked to cardiovascular risk. Elevated levels may indicate increased risk for heart disease, stroke, or vitamin deficiencies (B6, B12, folate). This test helps assess cardiovascular health and guide prevention strategies.

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Also Known As: Homocysteine Cardiac Risk Test
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The Cardio IQ™ hs-CRP Test measures high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in the blood to assess inflammation linked to cardiovascular risk. Elevated levels may indicate a higher risk of heart disease or other inflammatory conditions.

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Also Known As: Cardiac CRP Test, High Sensitivity C-reactive Protein Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Insulin Test measures fasting insulin levels in the blood to help evaluate insulin resistance, metabolic health, and risk for conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It provides insight into how the body regulates blood sugar and supports personalized risk assessment and treatment planning.

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Also Known As: Fasting Insulin Blood Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Lipid Panel is a test that assesses a patient's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by examining total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.

Also Known As:  Lipid Profile Test, Lipid Test, Cholesterol Profile Test, Lipids Blood Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Lipoprotein (a) Test measures lipoprotein (a), a type of LDL particle linked to increased cardiovascular risk. Elevated levels are largely inherited and not significantly affected by lifestyle. This test helps identify genetic heart disease risk and guide personalized prevention and treatment strategies.

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Also Known As: Lipoprotein A Test, Lpa Test, Lp(a) Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Lipoprotein Fractionation Ion Mobility Test separates and measures lipoprotein particles by size and concentration using ion mobility technology. It provides a detailed profile of LDL, HDL, and other subclasses, offering a clearer assessment of cardiovascular risk than standard cholesterol testing.

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Also Known As: LDL Particle Testing, LDL Subclass Test, LDL Fractionations Test
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The NMR Lipoprotein Fractionation Test uses nuclear magnetic resonance to measure particle size and concentration of LDL, HDL, and VLDL cholesterol. Unlike a standard lipid panel, it provides detailed information on lipoprotein subfractions linked to cardiovascular risk. Doctors use this test to assess heart disease risk, guide cholesterol management, and monitor therapy effectiveness. It offers deeper insight into lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health.

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Also Known As: NMR Test, LDL Particle Testing, LDL Subclass Test, LDL Fractionations Test
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The Cardio IQ™ Lp-PLA2 PLAC® Test measures lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, an enzyme linked to vascular inflammation and plaque instability. Elevated levels are associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke. Doctors use this blood test to assess cardiovascular risk beyond standard cholesterol testing, helping guide prevention and treatment strategies to reduce risk of heart attack or stroke.

Also Known As: LpPLA2 Test, Ps-PLA2 Activity Test, Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 Test
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What Is Cardio IQ Testing?

Did you know that almost half of all American adults have some form of cardiovascular ailment?

A report was published in 2019 by the Journal of the American Heart Association.

In the 2019 report, it was revealed that 121.1 million adults in America (48% of the 2019 numbers) have cardiovascular ailments.

With this being the case, it makes sense to take the necessary precautions to protect your health.

And one of the best ways to do that is by having your blood tested with cardio IQ testing.

If you're interested in learning more about cardio IQ lab tests to evaluate the health of your cardiovascular system, keep reading.

We will provide you with an overview of the available tests to help you know about your heart and provide insights into your health.

What Is Cardio IQ Testing?

Cardio IQ testing is essentially a testing procedure used to assess the LDL particles in your body to measure the likelihood of heart disease. Clinicians then use this detailed data to create a more efficient and customized treatment for patients.

Furthermore, this type of blood test makes diagnostics much more accurate and precise than they would have been otherwise.

Think of this kind of testing as an overview -- the big picture, if you will -- of the condition of your overall cardiovascular health and wellbeing.

It can both save and extend your life by finding indicators of certain ailments (heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, etc.).

The Benefits of Cardio IQ Testing Lab Testing

A cardio IQ advanced lipid panel test can provide many advantages. You could benefit from one immensely as it offers a more detailed analysis of your working cardiovascular system.

This will give way to greater protection against any potential cardiovascular diseases (CVD) that you may currently be unaware of. 

The importance of this cannot be understated. Every year, heart disease takes the lives of about 8 times the number of women who have breast cancer and 15 times the number of men who have prostate cancer.

In addition to that, a new study uncovered an interesting finding.

Almost 75% of people who were emitted to the hospital following a heart attack displayed no signs of being at risk for one.

Blood tests can help with avoiding such events from happening before it's too late. Then adjustments to lifestyle can be made preemptively to prevent such occurrences from taking place.

But that's not all a cardio IQ test can help you prevent. Here are a few more examples of avoidances to keep in mind:

  • High blood pressure
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Cardiometabolic risk
  • Low HDL (high-density lipoproteins)
  • High triglycerides
  • Diabetes

It's suggested that you should try fasting for 9 to 12 hours before having your blood drawn.

The cardio IQ test record will reveal a detailed assessment of any cardiovascular dangers. This is what will enable physicians to do a better job with their diagnostics.

Physicians can be more accurate with their suggestions. And as a result, prescribe the perfect treatments and proper resources to help you reduce any budding cardiovascular ailments.

Cardio IQ Tests

There are a group of important Cardio IQ blood tests to select from -- each with its specific value to identify the health of your cardiovascular system.

Here is a list of the Cardio IQ tests you should consider:

Cardio IQ Lipid Panel

This is undoubtedly the most common and repeated Lipid Panel. Elements include the factors useful in the detection of patients who have hyperlipidemia.

Cardio IQ Lipoprotein (A)

Higher amounts of LPA are connected with the enhanced danger of coronary heart disease.

Cardio IQ Lipoprotein Fractionation, Ion Mobility

There seems to be a strong connection between a heightened danger of untimely heart disease with a reduced amount of low-density lipoprotein particles. Ion Mobility provides a direct assessment of LDL particle size.

Cardio IQ Apolipoprotein A-1

Apolipoprotein A1 is the main protein connected with high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Similar to HDL cholesterol, enhanced concentrations are connected with lower dangers of cardiovascular ailments.

Cardio IQ Apolipoprotein B

As it pertains to Apolipoprotein B, two main forms can be found, B-48 and B-100. B-100, arranged and manufactured in the liver, is the main protein of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL), as well as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

Cardio IQ Apolipoprotein Evaluation

The primary protein that is associated with HDL cholesterol is Apolipoprotein A1. The dominant protein connected with lipid particles as well as HDL cholesterol is Apolipoprotein B-100.

The percentages of the two apolipoproteins connect with the danger of cardiovascular ailments.

Cardio IQ Cholesterol, Total

Total serum cholesterol examination is handy in the prognosis of hyperlipoproteinemia, thyroid ailments, etc.

Cardio IQ Direct LDL

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is known as "bad" cholesterol. Different ranges of its risk are based on the guidelines that are supplied by the NCEP (National Cholesterol Education Program).

Cardio IQ Fibrinogen Antigen, Nephelometry

Lower amounts of fibrinogen are associated with bleeding, commonly second to liver disease or DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation).

Cardio IQ HDL Cholesterol

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol ("good cholesterol") correlates to the danger of cardiovascular diseases. It elevates with regular exercise, medium alcohol intake, and with oral estrogen treatment.

Lowered levels occur with obesity, distress, as well as the smoking of cigarettes and diabetes.

Cardio IQ Hemoglobin A1c

To help with blood glucose regulation, the ADA (American Diabetes Association) has suggested hemoglobin A1c testing (HbA1c) two times annually for those who suffer from glycemia and then quarterly for those with bad glucose levels.

Cardio IQ Homocysteine

A higher amount of homocysteine is an unhampered factor in cardiovascular ailments.

Cardio IQ hs-CRP

The Cardio IQ hs-CRP test is very accurate in foreseeing the risks and potential of cardiovascular ailments.

Cardio IQ Insulin

This insulin test is used to identify hyperinsulinemia in individuals. The effects of hyperinsulinemia might be due to a tumor producing insulin (insulinoma), a syndrome caused by insulin resistance.

Cardio IQ CYP2C19 Genotype

Genotype tests can discover different variations in the CYP2C19 gene in the segment of DNA, leading to changed enzyme acts. Additionally, it may need other treatments or an amount of medication to achieve therapeutic levels.

Cardio IQ 4q25-AF Risk Genotype

This is a test that will assist physicians in measuring the risk for AFib (atrial fibrillation) and stroke. As many as 8 cardiovascular-connected genetic tests can be done on a single person.

Cardio IQ 9p21 Genotype

This is a test that will help measure risk connected with MI (Myocardial Infarction). It will be especially effective in males below the age of 50 and females below the age of 60.

Cardio IQ ApoE Genotype

This test is used to determine isotypes of ApoE, which will assist with the measurement of CHD (Coronary Herat Disease) as well as hyperlipoproteinemia.

Cardio IQ KIF6 Genotype

This is a test that will find and uncover variants of genes connected with an enhanced danger of CHD (Coronary Heart Disease).

Frequently Asked Questions About Cardio IQ Testing

When it comes to a complex subject such as cardio IQ testing, no matter how much we cover, there will be questions left unanswered. So here are a few frequently asked questions that you may have:

What Exactly Is a Cardio Test Panel?

The test panel is important because it works to assess a multitude of markers as well as lipid subfractions. This can be helpful for finding ailments sooner and more efficiently.

It helps to provide a broader and more complete assessment of dyslipidemia as well as a cardiovascular risk than the traditional lipid panel provides.

Why Is the Test Panel so Important?

The test panel assesses the quality level of a person's lipid markers as well as apolipoprotein B, in addition to the lipoprotein particle numbers and sizes.

This then makes it much easier to provide a more detailed measurement of the general cardiac risk.

Does It Take a Long Time to Receive the Results?

It can take around 1 to 2 business days to receive the results of Cardio IQ tests.

Benefits of CARDIO IQ Lab Testing With Ulta Lab Tests

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results.
  • You don't need health insurance.
  • You don't need a physician's referral
  • You'll get affordable pricing
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Are You Ready for Your Cardio IQ Test?

Order your Cardio IQ lab test today, and your results will be provided to you securely and confidentially online