Small dense LDL: An emerging risk factor for cardiovascular disease

► LDL consists of several subclasses with distinct sizes, densities and properties. ► The small dense LDL concentration is a surrogate marker for coronary artery disease. ► Definition and measuring method of small dense LDL have not yet been standardized. ► The small dense LDL-cholesterol can be measured by the homogeneous assay. ► Homogeneous assay clarifies the effects of hypolipidemic drugs on the LDL subclasses.