Peripheral Arterial Disease Associated with Elevated Lipoprotein(a): A Review of the Evidence and Treatment Approaches
Current Opinion in Lipidology, May 21, 2025
Bhatia, Harpreet S.a; Dalal, Sonarb; Ross, Elsiec

Why This Matters to Your Practice:
This comprehensive review consolidates clinical evidence linking elevated Lp(a) to the onset, severity, and outcomes of PAD. Highlights include:
- Lp(a) is an independent, causal risk factor for PAD
- Strong associations with chronic limb-threatening ischemia, restenosis, amputation, and MACE/MALE
- Patients with elevated Lp(a) undergoing revascularization face significantly higher risks
- Clinical Benefit of Lipoprotein Apheresis in PAD with elevated Lp(a)
Review Topics Include:
Among all therapies discussed, lipoprotein apheresis (e.g., Liposorber) is the only FDA-approved* treatment shown to reduce Lp(a)—with real-world data showing clinical benefits in PAD patients.
Epidemiology & Mechanisms
- Elevated Lp(a) drives atherothrombosis and inflammation
- Correlation with advanced PAD presentations
Treatment Landscape
- Apheresis (Liposorber): Most impactful and currently the only approved intervention for lowering elevated Lp(a).
- PCSK9 inhibitors: Modest Lp(a) reductions (~20–27%)
- Emerging options: Antisense oligonucleotides, siRNA—awaiting PAD-specific data
Clinical Takeaways:
- For Existing Users: Reinforces the value of ongoing Lp(a)-targeted apheresis in preventing major cardiovascular and limb events.
- For Potential Candidates: Highlights early intervention opportunities for high-risk PAD patients with elevated Lp(a).
- For All Providers: Encourages routine Lp(a) screening in PAD and greater awareness of apheresis as a treatment option.
What This Means for You:
- Evidence-backed care: Lowering Lp(a) alters the clinical course of PAD.
- Validated therapy: Liposorber remains the only approved, Lp(a)-targeted solution available today.
- Clinical leadership: Stay ahead of Lp(a)-targeted innovations while offering proven interventions now.
Suggested Next Steps:
- 🔬 Screen for FH and elevated Lp(a) in all PAD patients—especially those with recurrent events or revascularization failures.
- 📈 Consider apheresis early in the care plan for eligible high-risk patients.
- 🤝 Refer or consult with a Liposorber specialist to explore therapeutic fit. Find a center near you: Treatment Centers.
Read full publication here
If you have questions or would like to speak with a Liposorber representative, reply to this email or contact us at liposorber.com.
Thank you for your commitment to advancing PAD care.
LIPOSORBER Indications For Use (FH):
The LIPOSORBER® LA-15 System is indicated for use in performing low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) apheresis to acutely remove LDL-C from the plasma of the following high risk patient populations for whom diet has been ineffective and maximum drug therapy has been either ineffective or not tolerated:
- Group A. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Homozygotes with LDL-C > 500 mg/dL;
- Group B. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Heterozygotes with LDL-C ≥ 300 mg/dL;
- Group C. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Heterozygotes with LDL-C ≥ 70 mg/dL and either documented coronary artery disease or documented peripheral artery disease; and
- Group D. Clinically diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemic Heterozygotes with lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] ≥60 mg/dL (or 130 nmol/L) and either documented coronary artery disease or documented peripheral artery disease.
LIPOSORBER Safety Information:
ADVERSE EVENTS: The most common adverse events are hypotension (0.8%), nausea/vomiting (0.5%), and flushing/blotching (0.4%). Other adverse reactions include angina/chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, lightheadedness and anemia.
CONTRAINDICATION: Angiotensin converting enzyme [ACEI(s)] inhibitors are contraindicated with LIPOSORBER due to possible bradykinin reaction. ACEI(s) should be replaced with angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) or any other antihypertensive agent as determined by the prescribing physician.
*Please see the LIPOSORBER Instructions For Use manual for a full list
of contraindications and complete safety information.