Calculation of LDL apoB

Abstract

Objectives: This study tests the validity of the Hattori formula to calculate LDL apoB based on plasma lipids and total apoB.

Methods: In 2178 patients in a tertiary care lipid clinic, LDL apoB calculated as suggested by Hattori et al. was compared to directly measured LDL apoB isolated by ultracentrifugation.

Results: In subjects with plasma triglycerides ≥ 3.0 mmol/L, there was considerable discordance between calculated and measured LDL apoB. In all others, the relation between measured LDL apoB and calculated LDL apoB could be expressed as LDL apoB = 0.86 [total apoB - 0.9 TC (mg/dL) + 0.09 HDL-C (mg/dL) - 0.08 TG (mg/dL)] - 7.0 (r > 0.91; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Our results indicate that LDL apoB can be calculated with reasonable accuracy when triglycerides are <3.0 mmol/L. However, the calculation suggested by Hattori et al. should be corrected based on the regression demonstrated between calculated and measured LDL apoB in subjects with a plasma triglyceride <3.0 mmol/L.

Keywords: Calculated LDL apoB; Total apoB; VLDL apoB.