Lp-PLA2 (PLAC Test)

Inflammatory

Cardiovascular Inflammation

Lp-PLA2, measured by the PLAC test, is an enzyme produced within arterial plaque itself, which makes it a marker of inflammation happening specifically inside the vessel wall. Unlike hs-CRP, which reflects systemic inflammation, Lp-PLA2 is more specific to the artery. A preventive practice uses it to assess the stability and activity of atherosclerotic plaque.

What It Measures

Enzyme produced inside arterial plaque; specific marker of vascular inflammation (vs. hs-CRP which is systemic)

Optimal vs. Lab Range

Longevity Optimal

<150 ng/mL

Target range for optimal health and longevity based on research.

Standard Lab

<200 ng/mL

Population-based reference range from standard labs.

Why It Matters

Because Lp-PLA2 originates inside plaque, elevated levels point to vulnerable, inflamed plaque and correspond to higher risk of coronary artery disease and stroke. Its vascular specificity means it can refine cardiovascular risk beyond what a systemic marker like hs-CRP shows, helping distinguish arterial inflammation from generalized inflammation. In a longevity context, identifying active plaque inflammation early gives a chance to intervene before a plaque becomes unstable. It is most informative alongside ApoB, LDL-P, MPO, and a coronary calcium score. Lower values are generally favorable.

When Low

Generally favorable when low

When High

Vulnerable plaque, stroke risk, coronary artery disease; more specific to vascular inflammation than hs-CRP

How to Optimize

Because Lp-PLA2 reflects plaque-level inflammation tied to atherogenic lipids, intensive lipid management is central and is physician-directed, often involving statin therapy when clinically indicated. Lowering the atherogenic particle burden through diet and, where appropriate, medication tends to reduce the inflammatory activity this marker captures. General anti-inflammatory habits such as exercise and not smoking support the effort. Newer targeted agents remain research-stage and are not standard care. Targets and treatment are individualized with your physician; this content is educational and not a substitute for medical advice.

Key Interventions & Linked Compounds

Moderate evidence

Key Interventions

Statin (clinical)

intensive lipid management

darapladib (research)

Linked Compounds & Supplements

Omega-3

NAC

CoQ10

Curated from clinical literature. Individual results vary; consult a qualified clinician before changing a protocol.

Ordering Notes

Specimen

Serum or plasma (venous draw)

Patient prep

No fasting required. Maintain usual diet and medications unless advised.

Recommended cadence

Annual

Reporting unit

Confirm with the performing lab — units vary by region.

Pre-analytic notes

Standardize draw time of day, hydration, and recent exercise. Note any acute illness, supplements, or hormonal therapies on the requisition.

Recommended Follow-Up Actions

1
Confirm the result is reliable
Repeat abnormal values before acting — preferably from the same lab, same time of day, and under consistent prep. Rule out acute illness, recent intense exercise, or medication effects that can shift Lp-PLA2 (PLAC Test).
2
Compare against optimal, not just lab range
Use the optimal window above as the target. Lab "normal" is built from the general population and often misses early dysfunction.
3
Pair with related markers
Order a complementary panel covering metabolic, inflammatory, and hormonal context to interpret this marker properly.
4
Discuss interventions with a clinician
Use the interpretation guidance above to frame the conversation. Bring trends, not just one datapoint, to your visit.
5
Re-test on a defined cadence
If a change is implemented, re-measure in 8–12 weeks for fast-moving markers, or 3–6 months for slower ones, to confirm response before escalating.