LDL

Size patterns

LDL can be grouped based on its size: large low-density LDL particles are described as pattern A, and small high-density ("small dense") LDL particles are pattern B. Pattern B has been associated by some with a higher risk for coronary artery disease. This is thought to be because the smaller particles are more easily able to penetrate the endothelium of arterial walls. Pattern I, or intermediate, indicates that most LDL particles are very close in size to the normal gaps in the endothelium (26 nm). According to one study, sizes 19.0–20.5 nm were designated as pattern B and LDL sizes 20.6–22 nm were designated as pattern A.