Lp-PLA2 LIS Code: Lp-PLA2
Measure Lp-PLA2 levels to assess heart disease risk. Advanced private blood testing available.
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About this test
The Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) Blood Test, also known as the PLAC Test, measures an enzyme associated with inflammation within the walls of blood vessels and the development of atherosclerosis.
Lp-PLA2 is mainly carried by low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, commonly known as "bad cholesterol". Increased Lp-PLA2 activity or concentration has been associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
At Vitalync Diagnosis, we offer private Lp-PLA2 blood testing to support specialist cardiovascular investigations and advanced heart health assessments.
What Is Lp-PLA2?
Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 is an enzyme produced by inflammatory cells, including macrophages.
It circulates in the bloodstream attached mainly to LDL cholesterol particles and, to a lesser extent, HDL particles.
Lp-PLA2 acts on oxidised phospholipids, producing substances involved in inflammatory processes associated with the development of atherosclerotic plaques.
Atherosclerosis occurs when fatty deposits accumulate within artery walls, potentially narrowing the arteries and increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Why Is Lp-PLA2 Testing Important?
Lp-PLA2 is a biomarker associated with vascular inflammation and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Measuring Lp-PLA2 may provide additional information when assessing cardiovascular risk alongside established investigations.
The test may be considered in selected patients undergoing more detailed cardiovascular evaluation.
It does not replace standard cholesterol testing or established cardiovascular risk assessment methods.
Who Should Consider an Lp-PLA2 Blood Test?
An Lp-PLA2 blood test may be suitable for individuals who:
Have a family history of premature cardiovascular disease.
Have high cholesterol or other abnormal lipid results.
Have additional cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Require further investigation of possible cardiovascular risk.
Have been advised by a healthcare professional to undergo specialist cardiovascular biomarker testing.
What Can the Lp-PLA2 Test Help Assess?
Vascular Inflammation
Lp-PLA2 is associated with inflammatory processes involved in atherosclerosis.
Cardiovascular Risk
Elevated Lp-PLA2 measurements have been linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular events in observational studies.
Atherosclerosis-Related Processes
The test provides information about an enzyme involved in the breakdown of oxidised phospholipids associated with plaque development.
Additional Heart Health Investigations
Lp-PLA2 can complement selected lipid and cardiovascular tests when clinically appropriate.
Lp-PLA2 vs Standard Cholesterol Tests
A standard lipid profile measures cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in the blood.
The Lp-PLA2 test measures an enzyme associated with inflammatory processes involved in atherosclerosis.
These tests assess different aspects of cardiovascular health and may provide complementary information.
However, Lp-PLA2 is not routinely recommended as a standalone cardiovascular screening test, and its added value in clinical decision-making remains uncertain.
Do I Need to Fast?
Fasting requirements depend on the laboratory's testing protocol.
Please follow the preparation instructions provided by Vitalync Diagnosis before your appointment.
Book Your Lp-PLA2 Blood Test
At Vitalync Diagnosis, we provide private blood testing services to support cardiovascular health investigations, cholesterol monitoring and specialist biomarker testing.
Our Lp-PLA2 Blood Test measures an enzyme associated with vascular inflammation and may provide additional information during a comprehensive cardiovascular assessment.
Book your private Lp-PLA2 (PLAC) Blood Test with Vitalync Diagnosis today.
Important: Lp-PLA2 testing cannot independently diagnose atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease or predict a heart attack or stroke. Results should be interpreted alongside established cardiovascular risk factors, medical history and other clinical investigations.
