Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2
Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an enzyme produced largely by inflammatory cells within artery walls. A blood test measures its level or activity as a marker of inflammation happening specifically inside your blood vessels.
Unlike general inflammation markers, Lp-PLA2 is thought to be relatively specific to vascular inflammation, which is a driver of unstable, rupture-prone plaque. It is measured to add information about plaque activity when refining cardiovascular risk, particularly in people at intermediate risk.
An elevated Lp-PLA2 can indicate active inflammation within the artery wall and is associated with a higher risk of atherosclerotic plaque progression and cardiovascular events. It is best viewed as one contributing signal of risk rather than a diagnosis of any specific condition.
A lower Lp-PLA2 level is generally reassuring and suggests less vascular inflammation; on its own it is usually not a concern.
Lower is generally considered more favorable, and each lab reports its own reference range, but this marker should always be interpreted by a clinician in the context of your overall risk rather than in isolation. Because it is a specialized test not on standard panels, it is typically ordered to help fine-tune risk assessment.
Sources
Educational context only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex; always discuss your results with a clinician.