On-the-spot blood apolipoprotein B testing in pharmacies.
Expand your pharmacy services with apolipoprotein B (ApoB) testing.
The Igloo Reader Pro delivers rapid, reliable results that evaluate ApoB level right at the point of care.
Key takeaways
- ApoB testing helps pharmacies identify customers at higher cardiovascular risk.
- Elevated ApoB reflects increased atherogenic particle burden, not just cholesterol levels.
- Point-of-care ApoB testing supports earlier intervention and better therapy optimization.
Learn more about our Starter Kit for Pharmacies >
What is ApoB?
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is the main structural protein found on atherogenic lipoproteins such as LDL, VLDL, IDL, and lipoprotein(a). ApoB-100 is present as a single, large protein molecule embedded on the surface of each of these particles. This 1:1 ratio means that measuring ApoB directly reflects the number of cholesterol-carrying particles circulating in the blood that can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. There are two forms of ApoB: ApoB-100, linked to cardiovascular risk, and ApoB-48, found on intestinal lipoproteins involved in fat absorption. ApoB testing specifically measures ApoB-100 to assess the burden of atherogenic particles.
ApoB measures the number of atherogenic particles, often providing a more accurate cardiovascular risk assessment than LDL cholesterol, especially when results differ. Elevated ApoB is linked to higher risk of atherosclerosis and helps guide treatment. Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a unique ApoB-containing particle with an additional protein, apolipoprotein(a), that adds inherited cardiovascular risk. Testing both ApoB and Lp(a) offers a fuller picture of heart disease risk beyond standard cholesterol tests.
Why ApoB testing matters in pharmacy?
ApoB testing supports more precise cardiovascular risk assessment by identifying customers who may benefit from earlier or more targeted lipid management under medical supervision, even when standard cholesterol results appear normal.
Why pharmacies should offer ApoB testing:
- Enhance cardiovascular risk screening services for their community.
- Identify high-risk customers, including those with metabolic conditions.
- Deliver timely insights into cardiovascular health through quick, accessible testing.
- Support customers with tailored advice and referrals based on results.
How is ApoB measured?
- Sample: Blood.
- Units: mg/dL.
Interpretation: ApoB results can be evaluated alone or alongside traditional lipid measures like LDL-C and non-HDL-C for a comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment. Always follow the instructions for use (IFU) provided with your testing device and kit to ensure accurate results in your point-of-care setting.
ApoB testing with Igloo Reader Pro
ApoB can be measured from a small blood sample using Igloo Reader Pro within pharmacies or other point-of-care settings. Results can be accessed quickly and interpreted alongside other lipid panel values for a thorough cardiovascular risk evaluation.
Benefits of ApoB testing with the Igloo Reader Pro in pharmacies:
- Provide rapid, accurate ApoB testing at the point-of-care.
- Broaden preventive health services available in-store.
- Easily integrate testing into daily pharmacy workflows.
- Create new opportunities for service-based revenue and follow-up care.
What are normal ApoB values?
Normal ApoB levels are generally considered to be less than 90 mg/dL, with higher values potentially indicating increased cardiovascular risk.
What is high ApoB level?
High ApoB level: >110 mg/dL.
An ApoB level of 100 mg/dL is generally considered borderline or intermediate risk, while levels of 110 mg/dL or higher are viewed as high and may indicate increased cardiovascular risk.
It is important to underline that many laboratories have slightly different reference ranges, which can vary based on various factors, so results should always be interpreted within the clinical context. In cases of abnormal ApoB levels, pharmacies and other point-of-care health services can offer guidance on lifestyle changes and support, while referring customers to clinicians for personalized evaluation and treatment.
Why pharmacies should offer ApoB testing?
By integrating ApoB testing into pharmacy services, community health providers can play a vital role in early cardiovascular risk detection and prevention. This advanced biomarker offers more precise insights than traditional cholesterol measures, allowing for personalized care. With accessible, rapid testing solutions like the Igloo Reader Pro, pharmacies have the opportunity to expand their healthcare offerings, strengthen customer relationships, and contribute meaningfully to reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease. Actively implementing ApoB testing into a pharmacy routine is a proactive step toward empowering patients and elevating pharmacy-based care in cardiovascular health management.
Learn more about the Pharmacy Starter Kit >
Literature
- De Oliveira-Gomes at al., Apolipoprotein B: Bridging the Gap Between Evidence and Clinical Practice, Circulation, 2024, Jul 2;150(1):62-79.
- Soffer at al., Role of apolipoprotein B in the clinical management of cardiovascular risk in adults: An Expert Clinical Consensus from the National Lipid Association, Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 2024 Volume 18, Issue 5e647-e663
- Devaraj at al., Biochemistry, Apolipoprotein B. In: StatPearls Publishing; 2025.
Disclaimer
This information is educational and does not qualify for a medical advice. Always use local reference ranges and consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions about diagnostics for pharmacists.
ApoB testing measures apolipoprotein B-100, the protein found on each atherogenic lipoprotein particle like LDL and VLDL. Because there is one ApoB-100 molecule per particle, the test reflects the total number of cholesterol-carrying particles that contribute to cardiovascular risk.
Unlike LDL cholesterol, which measures cholesterol content, ApoB counts the actual number of atherogenic particles. This provides a more accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk.
The Igloo Reader Pro enables rapid ApoB testing using a small capillary blood sample, with results available in minutes. It is designed for easy integration into pharmacy or dental clinic workflows, helping to deliver timely, accurate information to their customers.
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