Ulta Lab Tests

Stroke

Stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked (ischemic) or when a blood vessel ruptures (hemorrhagic). Lab testing cannot diagnose an acute stroke—that requires emergency imaging—but labs do reveal risk factors and contributing conditions that you and your clinician can address.

A practical plan starts with cholesterol and glucose control (lipid panel, A1c/glucose), then refines risk with ApoB(particle number), lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] (genetic risk), and hs-CRP (inflammation). Add kidney markers(creatinine/eGFR, urine albumin-creatinine) and coagulation tests when needed. In younger adults or cryptogenic strokes/TIAs, a hypercoagulable evaluation (antiphospholipid antibodies, Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A, homocysteine) may be appropriate under clinician guidance.
Use these tests to screen, support diagnosis when appropriate, and monitor trends. They complement—not replace—accurate blood-pressure measurement, ECG/heart-rhythm evaluation for atrial fibrillation, carotid and brain imaging, and urgent care when symptoms are severe.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Know the red flags (emergency): sudden Face droop, Arm weakness, Speech trouble—Time to call 911. Also: new severe headache, vision loss, one-sided numbness, confusion, dizziness with imbalance.

  • Prevention & baseline: family history of stroke; high blood pressure; diabetes/prediabetes; high LDL or triglycerides; chronic kidney disease; smoking/nicotine; migraine with aura (discuss with clinician).

  • Possible contributors: irregular heartbeat or atrial fibrillation, carotid disease, recent infection/inflammation, high Lp(a), antiphospholipid syndrome, sickle cell disease (children/young adults).

  • After TIA/minor stroke (clinician-directed): labs to clarify cause and guide secondary prevention.

Symptoms and TIAs require clinician evaluation immediately.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Quantify risk beyond basic cholesterol with ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP.

  • Identify contributors (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease, clotting disorders, anemia) that change prevention and treatment plans.

  • Monitor safety and progress after medications or lifestyle changes (lipids, A1c, kidney function, INR if on warfarin).

What testing cannot do

  • Confirm or rule out an acute stroke (that needs emergency imaging and examination).

  • Replace blood-pressure control, ECG/heart-rhythm monitoring, carotid/brain imaging, or specialist evaluation.

  • Predict events with certainty; context and trends matter.

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Lipid Panel & non-HDL-C: core cholesterol profile; non-HDL-C captures all atherogenic cholesterol.

  • Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): counts all atherogenic particles; helpful when triglycerides are high or LDL-C is discordant.

  • Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]: genetic, largely lifelong; higher levels increase risk of ischemic stroke and calcific valve disease.

  • High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP): marker of low-grade inflammation; trend over time.

  • A1c / Fasting Glucose (± Insulin): glucose control; insulin resistance accelerates vascular disease.

  • Kidney Health: Creatinine/eGFR and urine albumin-creatinine (ACR)—kidney disease raises vascular risk.

  • CBC & CMP/Electrolytes: anemia or infection/inflammation context; liver/renal function for medication safety.

  • Coagulation (PT/INR, aPTT ± fibrinogen): baseline bleeding/clotting status; INR monitoring if on warfarin.

  • Hypercoagulable Workup (select cases): Antiphospholipid antibodies (lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, β2-glycoprotein I), Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A, homocysteine. Ordered when history/age/presentation suggests.

  • Thyroid (TSH ± Free T4): hyper- or hypothyroidism can influence rhythm and vascular risk.

  • Sickle Cell / Hemoglobinopathy (as indicated): hemoglobin evaluation in children/young adults or per ancestry/history.

Quick Build Guide

Goal Start with Add if needed
General stroke-risk screen Lipid Panel • A1c/Glucose non-HDL-C • ApoB • Lp(a) • hs-CRP
After TIA/minor stroke (with clinician) Lipids • A1c • CBC/CMP • PT/INR/aPTT ApoB • Lp(a) • ACR/eGFR • TSH
Young/cryptogenic stroke Baseline above Antiphospholipid panel • FVL/Prothrombin G20210A • Homocysteine
Atrial fibrillation or suspected AF Lipids • A1c • TSH ACR/eGFR for anticoagulant dosing; INR (if on warfarin)
CKD or diabetes present Lipid Panel • A1c ACR/eGFR • ApoB • Lp(a) • hs-CRP

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Choose your starting panel: lipids, A1c/glucose, CBC/CMP, and kidney markers (eGFR, ACR).

  2. Refine risk: add ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP; consider coagulation tests or hypercoagulable panels if your clinician suggests.

  3. Prepare for accuracy: follow any fasting instructions; schedule on a recovery day; keep supplements consistent unless your order lists holds (biotin can affect some assays).

  4. Get your draw: visit a nearby patient service center; most results post within a few days.

  5. Review & plan: discuss results with your clinician; combine with blood-pressure logs, ECG/monitoring for AF, and imaging. Set a follow-up cadence.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • LDL-C & non-HDL-C: lower values generally reduce risk; pair with ApoB to assess particle burden.

  • Lp(a): treat elevation as added lifetime risk; values are largely genetic and stable.

  • hs-CRP: use trends, not single spikes; retest after illness or strenuous exercise.

  • A1c/Glucose & Kidney markers: tighter glucose control and healthy kidneys lower vascular risk.

  • Coagulation & hypercoagulable tests: abnormal results need clinician review; some findings require confirmation on repeat testing and timing off acute events.
    Always interpret labs with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Starter set (most adults): Lipid Panel + non-HDL-C + A1c/Glucose + CBC/CMP + ACR/eGFR

  • Risk refinement: ApoB + Lp(a) + hs-CRP

  • Secondary-cause evaluation (select): Antiphospholipid antibodies, Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A, homocysteine (clinician-directed)

  • Medication monitoring: INR for warfarin; kidney function for direct oral anticoagulants per clinician

FAQs

Can blood tests diagnose a stroke?
No. Acute stroke is diagnosed with emergency imaging and examination. Labs assess risk and contributing conditions.

Do I need to fast?
Often for lipids and glucose. Follow the instructions on your order.

What is Lp(a) and why check it?
Lipoprotein(a) is a genetic particle that increases stroke and heart risk. One lifetime measurement is often useful.

Should everyone get a hypercoagulable panel?
No. It’s usually reserved for younger patients, unusual presentations, or cryptogenic events—decided with your clinician.

If my numbers improve, am I protected from stroke?
Improvement lowers risk, but blood-pressure control, AF detection/management, and healthy habits still matter.

How often should I repeat labs?
Commonly every 3–12 months to track risk factors; your clinician will tailor timing.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Heart & Cardiovascular Tests Hub

  • Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Tests • Cholesterol Tests • High Blood Pressure Tests • Heart Health Tests • Heart Attack Risk Tests • Diabetes & Insulin Resistance • Kidney Health

  • Key Tests : Lipid Panel • non-HDL-C • ApoB • Lp(a) • hs-CRP • A1c/Glucose (± Insulin) • Creatinine/eGFR • Urine ACR • CBC/CMP • PT/INR & aPTT • Antiphospholipid Panel • Factor V Leiden • Prothrombin G20210A • Homocysteine • TSH • Hemoglobin Evaluation (as indicated)

References

  • American Heart Association/American Stroke Association — Primary and secondary stroke prevention guidance.
  • U.S. Preventive Services Task Force — Cardiovascular risk and diabetes screening recommendations.
  • National Lipid Association — ApoB and Lp(a) scientific statements.
  • KDIGO — Kidney disease evaluation and albumin-creatinine testing guidance.
  • Guidance on antiphospholipid antibody testing and interpretation.
  • Clinical reviews on cryptogenic stroke and hypercoagulable evaluation.
  • Stroke and Lab Testing: What You Need to Know

Available Tests & Panels

Your Stroke Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Select a core risk panel (lipids, A1c/glucose, CBC/CMP, ACR/eGFR), add ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP to refine risk, and include coagulation or hypercoagulable tests when your clinician recommends them. Review results together to personalize prevention and follow-up.

 

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The Clotting Factor VIII Activity Test measures the activity of factor VIII, a protein essential for normal blood clotting. Low activity may indicate hemophilia A or acquired deficiencies, while elevated activity is linked to clotting risk. This test helps evaluate unexplained bleeding, bruising, or thrombosis, and supports diagnosis of inherited or acquired clotting disorders, providing insight into overall hemostatic function.

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Also Known As: Coag Factor VIII Activity Test
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The Homocysteine Test measures homocysteine levels in blood to assess risk for heart disease, stroke, and vascular problems. Elevated homocysteine may result from vitamin B6, B12, or folate deficiency and is linked to blood clots, cognitive decline, and osteoporosis. Doctors use this test to evaluate cardiovascular risk, monitor nutritional deficiencies, and guide treatment for metabolic or genetic conditions affecting homocysteine metabolism.

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Also Known As: Homocysteine Cardiac Risk Test
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The Lipid Panel Test checks six key blood lipids: total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and the Chol/HDL ratio. This panel assesses risk for cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke by evaluating cholesterol balance and fat levels in the blood. Doctors use lipid panel results for routine screening, treatment monitoring, and guiding lifestyle or medication adjustments.

Also Known As:  Lipid Profile Test, Cholesterol Panel Test, Lipids Blood Test 
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The Lp-PLA2 Activity Test measures lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 enzyme activity, a marker of vascular inflammation linked to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels may increase risk for heart attack and stroke. Doctors order this test for patients with high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, or other risk factors. Results provide valuable insight into arterial health, helping guide prevention, treatment, and heart disease management.

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Also Known As: LpPLA2 Test, Ps-PLA2 Activity Test, Platelet-activating Factor Acetylhydrolase Test, PAF-AH Test, PLAC Test, Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 Test
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The Lupus Anticoagulant Evaluation with Reflex measures PTT-LA and dRVVT to detect lupus anticoagulant antibodies, which increase risk of abnormal clotting. Reflex tests such as Hexagonal Phase Confirmation, Thrombin Clotting Time, and dRVVT mixing are performed if results are prolonged. Doctors use this panel to evaluate unexplained clotting, recurrent miscarriage, or autoimmune disease, aiding in diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome.

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Also Known As: LA Test, LAC Test, Lupus Anticoagulant Panel Test, Lupus Inhibitor Test, LA Sensitive PTT Test, PTT-LA Test,
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The Metabolic Syndrome & Glucose Control Panel evaluates key biomarkers—fasting glucose, insulin, lipids, and related metrics—to assess insulin resistance, glucose dysregulation, and cardiometabolic risk. This integrated panel helps clinicians identify metabolic syndrome early, monitor glycemic control, and guide interventions to reduce progression to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

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The N-terminal proBNP (NT-proBNP) Test measures levels of NT-proBNP, a marker released when the heart muscle is under stress. Elevated levels may indicate heart failure, left ventricular dysfunction, or other cardiac conditions. Doctors use this blood test to diagnose, monitor severity, and guide treatment of heart disease, while also helping distinguish cardiac from non-cardiac causes of shortness of breath and related symptoms.

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Also Known As: Brain Natriuretic Peptide Test, proBNP Test, N-Terminal proBNP Test
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The RPR (Monitor) with Reflex to Titer Test screens for syphilis by detecting antibodies to Treponema pallidum. If positive, a reflex titer determines antibody concentration to assess disease activity and treatment response. Doctors order this test to diagnose syphilis, monitor therapy, or check reinfection. Results provide essential information for managing active infection, confirming treatment success, and guiding follow-up care.

Also Known As: Syphilis RPR Test, Rapid Plasma Reagin Test
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Types of Stroke - Risks Factors / Symptoms / Lab Tests

Stroke is a condition caused by the sudden blockage or diminished blood supply to a part of the brain.  This changes/affects body functions controlled by the part of the brain, hence reduced response or no response to stimulation at all. Stroke mainly happens when/if these brain cells do not get oxygen and nutrients made available by the fresh supply of blood. Body cells, and brain cells may get inflamed or even die if they do not get enough oxygen and nutrients, one of the reasons why stroke leaves one permanently disabled.  

Statistics show that more than 129,000 Americans die from stroke each year, with approximately 795,000 people suffering new or recurrent stroke annually. This makes stroke the 5th leading cause of death in the United States. 65% of all stroke-related deaths occur in women. In addition to causing long-term disability in most survivors, at least 25% of them are at risk of suffering another stroke within five years. 

Types of Stroke  

  • Ischemic: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for more than 87% of reported cases. It is mainly caused by a blocked artery to the brain (thrombotic stroke). This can occur as a result of a blood clot in a narrow artery, or if the clot (in other parts of the body) breaks off and travels to the brain, commonly known as an embolic stroke. 
  • Hemorrhagic stroke: This type of stroke occurs when/if a blood vessel ruptures, causing breeding in and around the brain. This could be as a result of a head injury (from an accident) or aneurysms. Aneurysms occur as a result of high blood pressure or a genetic defect.  This is the most dangerous type of stroke, which almost always leads to death.  

Risk Factors 

The most common risk factors include: 

  • Diabetes mellitus  
  • High blood pressure  
  • Dangerously high cholesterol levels  
  • Age (seniors have a risk)  
  • Hereditary genetics  
  • Race (African Americans have a higher risk of stroke when compared to Caucasians)  
  • Sex (more men suffer a stroke as compared to women, while more women succumb to it quickly)  
  • Sickle cell anemia   
  • Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome  
  • Leading an unhealthy lifestyle (lack of exercise, drug abuse, and unhealthy eating habits)   

Signs and Symptoms

Most people will have one or more mini strokes, commonly known as TIAs (Transient Ischemic Attacks), before having an actual one. These mini strokes should serve as a warning and a reason to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Symptoms of stroke can be persistent, with TIAs fading off within no time. The most common symptoms of TIA or Stroke include:  

  • Severe, unexplained headache  
  • Trouble talking, sudden loss of speech, and difficulties understanding what is being said  
  • Sudden loss of coordination, balance, and trouble walking  
  • Paralysis of the leg, arm, or face (on one side of the body), sudden weakness and numbness 
  • Unexpected difficulties in seeing with one or both eyes and blurred vision.   

Tests  

Doctors mainly use non-laboratory testing for stroke diagnosis. These include several imaging tests, a neurological and physical exam. Researchers are, however, in the process of finding laboratory tests that could be used in stroke diagnosis, screening, treatment, and management. Stroke biomarkers may also come in handy in the future.  

Some of the feasible biomarkers that could be used in risk assessment include N-methyl-D-aspartate neuroreceptors (NMDAR), Lp-PLA2, and NT-PRoBNP. Antibodies to metalloproteinases (MMPs) and NR2A/2B are potential candidates for stroke diagnosis as well. A panel of biomarkers could be used in both risk assessment and diagnostic tools for stroke. All these are, however, in the research stage, hence, yet to be tested.  

Some lab tests may also be ordered to assess a patient’s risk. These include:  

More tests may be required to identify situations that could increase your risk. These include: