lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2
Pronunciation: LIE-poh-pro-teen
Inflammatory biomarker associated with atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability and cardiovascular risk.
Full Definition
Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an enzyme produced by inflammatory cells within atherosclerotic plaques that hydrolyzes oxidized phospholipids, generating pro-inflammatory and pro-atherogenic mediators. Elevated plasma Lp-PLA2 levels and activity are associated with increased cardiovascular risk, particularly stroke risk, independent of traditional risk factors. While initially considered a promising biomarker for risk stratification, recent guidelines have de-emphasized its clinical utility due to mixed results from intervention trials targeting this pathway. Lp-PLA2 testing may still be considered in select intermediate-risk patients for additional risk stratification.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as Lp-PLA2; note the hyphen in the abbreviation.
In Context
- "Elevated lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 levels suggested increased plaque vulnerability." — cardiovascular risk assessment
- "The role of Lp-PLA2 testing in routine clinical practice remains controversial." — laboratory medicine review