Subjects with chronic renal failure have a greatly increased risk of coronary heart disease and dyslipidemia. Relatively few studies have examined the relationship of chronic renal failure to lipoprotein (Lp)(a) concentrations, an important risk factor for coronary heart disease. Diabetic subjects have been reported to have both increased Lp(a) concentrations and an increased risk of renal failure, thereby possibly confounding the Lp(a)-renal failure association. The association between Lp(a) and chronic renal failure in 359 control subjects and 111 subjects with renal failure was examined. Lp(a) (in milligrams per deciliter) was elevated in subjects with chronic renal failure, regardless of ethnicity (Mexican Americans, 19.8 +/- 2.7 versus 14.1 +/- 1.3; P = 0.03; non-Hispanic white patients, 24.9 +/- 3.0 versus 16.3 +/- 1.2; P = 0.006;). These differences persisted after adjustment for diabetes and ethnicity (P < 0.001). The type of treatment for chronic renal failure (diet, hemodialysis, or peritoneal dialysis) did not have an effect on Lp(a) concentrations. Lp(a) levels were not correlated with the level of creatinine in subjects with chronic renal failure. Thus, the elevation of Lp(a) levels in renal failure must occur early in renal failure, or alternatively, elevated Lp(a) levels may promote progression to chronic renal failure. These results indicate that Lp(a) concentrations are increased in chronic renal failure and may increase the risk for coronary heart disease in these subjects.