Positive association of lipoprotein(a) and the prevalence of lower extremity arterial disease in MASLD: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been recognized as a genetically determined and independent contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, its role in lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) among individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains insufficiently studied. Given the overlapping metabolic disturbances in both conditions, such as insulin resistance and lipid abnormalities, a potential relationship between Lp(a) and peripheral vascular injury in MASLD is biologically plausible. This study aimed to investigate the cross-sectional association between circulating Lp(a) concentrations and the presence of LEAD in a well-characterized MASLD population. METHODS: A total of 468 MASLD patients undergoing routine health check-ups were included. Lp(a) levels were stratified into three categories: