Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, typically affecting the legs. It is caused by atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty plaques in arterial walls driven by inflammatory processes and lipid deposits. The Lp-PLA2 Activity test is the most important blood test for assessing PAD risk because it measures active inflammation within arterial plaques that contribute to disease progression.
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Peripheral Arterial Disease is caused by atherosclerosis, a process where fatty deposits and cholesterol build up inside artery walls, forming plaques that narrow and stiffen blood vessels. This buildup is driven by chronic inflammation, elevated LDL cholesterol, smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which damage the arterial lining and allow lipids to accumulate. Over time, these plaques restrict blood flow to the legs and feet, causing pain, cramping, and reduced mobility.
The Lp-PLA2 Activity test is the most important blood test for assessing cardiovascular risk in Peripheral Arterial Disease because it measures an enzyme directly involved in forming unstable arterial plaques. Elevated Lp-PLA2 activity indicates active inflammation within artery walls and identifies plaques that are more likely to rupture or progress, helping predict disease severity and guide treatment strategies. While PAD is primarily diagnosed through physical exams and imaging like the ankle-brachial index, the Lp-PLA2 test provides crucial information about the underlying inflammatory processes driving plaque formation and arterial damage.
You should get tested if you experience leg pain or cramping when walking that improves with rest, coldness or numbness in your legs or feet, slow-healing wounds on your feet or legs, or changes in leg color or hair loss on your legs. Testing is also recommended if you are over 65, have diabetes, smoke or have a history of smoking, have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, or have a family history of heart disease or stroke. Early detection through blood tests like Lp-PLA2 can identify cardiovascular risk before symptoms become severe.
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What this means
Your Lp-PLA2 activity level is elevated above the optimal range, which indicates increased inflammatory activity in your blood vessels. While this doesn't mean you're having a heart problem right now, it suggests your arteries may have more active inflammation than ideal, which can increase long-term cardiovascular risk.
Recommended actions
Adopt a Mediterranean-style diet with more fish, olive oil, vegetables, and whole grains
Incorporate regular aerobic exercise like brisk walking or swimming for 30 minutes most days
Work on reducing stress through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques
Retest in 3-6 months after making lifestyle changes to track your progress
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