Lp- Pla2 (plac) - Cardiac Risk Marker

While the LP-PLA2 enzyme helps in removing the LDL Cholesterol from the artery walls, LP-PLA2 itself contributes to inflammation and increased cholesterol accumulation. This action leads to the formation of plaque. Due to the inflammation, the plaque is prone to rupture. When the plaque ruptures, the body responds to the plaque by forming a blood clot. The clot blocks the flow of blood either to the heart or the brain resulting in a cardiovascular event or a stroke.

The LP-PLA2 test is a useful biomarker to predict risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and stroke.

The LP-PLA2 test is useful as a screening and monitoring tool in patients who are at moderate to high risk for cardiovascular events. This includes people who have a family history of cardiovascular disease or hypertension. People with diabetes, hyperlipidemia (elevated cholesterol), metabolic syndrome and chronic kidney disease are also at a risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Since LP-PLA2 is an independent marker when compared to other traditional markers, it is a useful test to determine risk for a cardiovascular event.

LP-PLA2 (Lipoprotein associated phospholipase A2) is an enzyme found in the blood and the test measures the amount of lipoprotein that is associated with phospholipase in the blood.

Other names: PLAC test, LP-PLA2 test 

LDL Cholesterol that is often called as the bad cholesterol sometimes gets in to the walls of the arteries. The body produces LP-PLA2 to get rid of the cholesterol and therefore this marker is specific to the vascular system unlike other markers that are produced in response to systemic inflammation.

Levels lower than 250 ng/ml indicate low risk and levels higher than 250 ng/ml indicates higher risk of heart disease and stroke.

Interpretation of LP- PLA2 (PLAC) test

If LP-PLA2 levels are found to be elevated, the patient may need a management plan to reduce lipid levels in the blood. Diet, medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce the level of LP-PLA2 in the blood.