Lipoprotein-associated Phospholipase A2: Effects of Low Density Lipoprotein Apheresis

In addition to hypercholesterolemia, chronic arterial inflammation has been shown to be strongly associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) [1]. The accumulation and oxidation of LDL within the intima trigger inflammatory processes within the vessel wall. Certain markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), oxidized LDL, and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) have emerged as novel and potentially useful markers in identifying patients with an increased risk of CVD. These inflammatory markers not only predict the long-term risk of CVD but recently have been added to the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score for enhanced risk stratification in the setting of acute coronary syndrome. Therapies that specifically target such inflammatory markers may help to reduce the inflammatory response, stabilize atherosclerotic plaques, and optimize the treatment options for patients at high risk of CVD.