Comprehensive Cholesterol Tests Provides Clues for Metabolic Abnormality

A detailed lipid profile is helping physicians to diagnose Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), the number one cause of female infertility.

The comprehensive cholesterol panel known as the Vertical Auto Profile (VAP) measures 15 separate components of blood cholesterol and can identify a far greater number of lipid abnormalities than standard low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), total cholesterol, and triglycerides.

The VAP test is the only cholesterol test to identify markers for Metabolic Syndrome, a precursor for diabetes. The VAP extended lipid test was developed by Atherotech Diagnostics, (Birmingham, AL, USA) and can report 22 blood "cholesterol” components including accurate measurement of nonfasting direct LDL and all the lipoprotein subclasses.

PCOS increases the risk of heart disease, insulin resistance, diabetes and certain cancers. It is also the most common metabolic abnormality in women of childbearing age, affecting 5-10 million women nationwide. While there is no single test for diagnosing the illness, the detailed cholesterol profile is proving useful. The four major symptoms of PCOS are irregular periods, weight gain, high testosterone levels, and metabolic disorders, including abnormal cholesterol levels. Results have shown a correlation between patients who have PCOS and high levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides, but low levels of high-density lipoprotein 2, a highly protective subclass of HDL.

Steven Foley, M.D., a physician who specializes in PCOS, said, "It is the most accurate and easiest method to evaluate my female patients for elevated cholesterol as well as polycystic ovarian syndrome. It is particularly valuable when developing a treatment plan for women and also helps to monitor response to treatment."

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