Dr. Ping's Blog

Many of us know that heart attack can come suddenly without warning.  Therefore a routine checkup is necessary to understand the risk.  However, there're not many tests that are credibly with high probability of accuracy.

One of the more definitive medical tests which identify risk of heart attack is the 64 Slice CT Angiogram (or MSCT). However, it's not only costly, but also exposes the body with meaningful amount of radiation.

A new FDA approved test called PLAC shows high promise.  The test, being a regular blood test,  is relatively risk free and low cost.

The PLAC Test is a blood test that measures the level of Lp-PLA2, an enzyme associated with the inflammation of your arteries. Increased levels of Lp-PLA2 increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

In most adults, cholesterol causes a fatty deposit called plaque to build up in the walls of the arteries. When these walls become inflamed, your body produces an enzyme called Lp-PLA2. If the amount of Lp-PLA2 is high, this may indicate that the plaque is more likely to rupture through the inside lining of your artery into your bloodstream, where it may cause a clot that could result in
heart attack or stroke.  You may read more about the test here.

So check with your doctor to make sure you add this in your annual physical.

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