Epidemiology of lipoproteinassociated phospholipase A2

Inflammation has been shown to play a central role in all phases of the atherosclerotic process.1 Inflammatory pathways are implicated in early atherogenesis, in the progression of lesions, and in thrombotic complications. Clinical studies have shown associations of circulating markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen, with cardiovascular events.2,3 Circulating inflammatory mediators may not only mark increased risk for cardiovascular events but also, in some cases, contribute to their pathogenesis. An inflammatory marker that has come under study recently with regard to cardiovascular disease is lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2).