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- Joined
- Oct 3, 2005
- Messages
- 6,670
My most recent interest is in a relatively new biological marker called Lp-PLA2 (PLAC), which can be tested with a simple blood draw.
“Lp-PLA2 is a biological marker for vascular inflammation, a condition associated with the buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Over time, this buildup can result in a narrowing of the arteries and lead to CHD. Patients with test results that show Lp-PLA2 activity greater than the level of 225 nanomoles per minute per milliliter (nmol/min/mL) are at increased risk for a CHD event. Patients with test results below this level are at decreased risk for a CHD event.”
“Traditional inflammatory markers, such as hsCRP, and CRP, whilst recognized as being useful systemic inflammatory markers are not as sensitive for identifying inflammation of the coronary artery walls. As a result, the PLAC Test, which is measuring levels of Lp-PLA2, serves as a specific independent coronary marker.”
I was able to get this PLAC test done at Discount Online Blood Chemistry Tests & Results, Wellness & Anti Aging Direct Access Laboratory Testing and I got the results back in a few days – my score was 109 (low risk is <200, and reference interval is 120-199, so needless to say I’m pretty pleased with a 109 value).
As I’ve mentioned before, I struggle with genetically lower HDL, which has always had me worried about atherosclerosis. I can rest a little easier now, knowing my Lp-PLA2 is so low.
“Lp-PLA2 is a biological marker for vascular inflammation, a condition associated with the buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Over time, this buildup can result in a narrowing of the arteries and lead to CHD. Patients with test results that show Lp-PLA2 activity greater than the level of 225 nanomoles per minute per milliliter (nmol/min/mL) are at increased risk for a CHD event. Patients with test results below this level are at decreased risk for a CHD event.”
“Traditional inflammatory markers, such as hsCRP, and CRP, whilst recognized as being useful systemic inflammatory markers are not as sensitive for identifying inflammation of the coronary artery walls. As a result, the PLAC Test, which is measuring levels of Lp-PLA2, serves as a specific independent coronary marker.”
I was able to get this PLAC test done at Discount Online Blood Chemistry Tests & Results, Wellness & Anti Aging Direct Access Laboratory Testing and I got the results back in a few days – my score was 109 (low risk is <200, and reference interval is 120-199, so needless to say I’m pretty pleased with a 109 value).
As I’ve mentioned before, I struggle with genetically lower HDL, which has always had me worried about atherosclerosis. I can rest a little easier now, knowing my Lp-PLA2 is so low.
