Lp-PLA2 Activity
Quest Diagnostics
Sample type: Serum
Requires fasting: No
Phlebotomy required
Details
Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), also known as platelet activating factor Acetylhydrolase, is an inflammatory enzyme that circulates bound mainly to low density lipoproteins and has been found to be localized and enriched in atherosclerotic plaques. In multiple clinical trials, Lp-PLA2 activity has been shown to be an independent predictor of coronary heart disease and stroke in the general population. Measurement of Lp-PLA2 may be used along with traditional cardiovascular risk factor measures for identifying individuals at higher risk of cardiovascular disease events. Clinical management may include beginning or intensifying risk reduction strategies. The activity assay is an enzyme assay run on an automated chemistry platform.
- Lp-PLA2
Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected
This test measures the activity of Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), an enzyme linked to inflammation and found in atherosclerotic plaques. High levels of Lp-PLA2 are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. This test can help identify individuals at higher risk of cardiovascular events, aiding in the decision to start or intensify risk reduction strategies.
A simple blood draw is needed.
3–5 business days
Optimal ≤123 nmol/min/mL
High >123 nmol/min/mL
- Fasting before a blood draw means you don't eat or drink anything except water.
- Your doctor should provide any special instructions related to fasting for your test. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:
Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)
- Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
- Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
- Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
- Collection Instructions:
- Bring a valid ID.
- Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.
- Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
- More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide
Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy
- Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
- Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
- Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
- Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
- Collection Instructions:
- Have your digital or printed requisition form and valid ID ready.
- Your phlebotomist will contact you by phone to coordinate arrival.
- More Info: Getlabs blood draw guide
- Preferred Specimen(s): 1 mL serum
- Alternative: NA
- Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
- Collection Instructions: NA
- Transport Container: Transport tube
- Transport Temperature: Refrigerated (Cold Packs)
- Specimen Stability:
- Room temperature: 28 days
- Refrigerated: 28 days
- Frozen: 90 days
- Reject Criteria:
- Hemolysis • Moderate to grossly lipemic • Moderate to grossly icteric
State restrictions:
Patient can't order this test if they are located in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, New Jersey, New York, or Rhode Island
