We use cookies to so our web site can function correctly. By Clicking "OK" or by clicking into any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. To find out more visit the cookies section of our privacy policy.

Privacy Statement

A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.

We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about web page traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes.

Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website, by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us.

Cookie group mandatory

(Req)
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms.
You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

These cookies are required

Functional

These cookies allow us to adtertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Marketing

These cookies allow us to advertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Performance Cookies

These cookies allow us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site.  All information collect is annonomas unless you provide personal information to us.
If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.
Menu
Close
icon-searchsearch

Type to search, press ESC to leave

icon-close
Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Keeping patients and staff safe ▶

PLAC blood test

PLAC (LpPLA2) is a revolutionary blood test which can provide an early warning of the risk of heart disease or stroke

Request an appointment

What is a PLAC blood test?

PLAC measures levels of the LpPLA2 enzyme. This is seen as a marker for inflammation in the blood vessels, which is linked to an increase of plaque in the arteries. Your GP may refer you for this test if you smoke, have high cholesterol or if there is a history of cardiovascular disease in your family.

Need to know

  • What happens during a PLAC blood test? icon plus

    PLAC involves taking one or more samples of blood, usually from a vein in your arm. This stage of the procedure should only take a few moments, and will be carried out as an outpatient appointment, and you can go home straight afterwards.

    The sample or samples will then be tested, and your GP or consultant will let you know when you can expect the results, usually with 24 to 48 hours.

    These will reveal whether you have a low, medium or high cardiovascular risk.

  • How to prepare for a PLAC blood test icon plus

    Your GP or consultant will explain what will happen during the test and will answer any questions you may have.

    You should let them know if you are taking any blood thinning medication, such as aspirin, or if you have any condition that makes you more likely to bleed or bruise. They will let you know exactly what you should do beforehand. This may involve avoiding a particular medication or eating for a certain amount of time prior to your blood test.

  • After your blood test icon plus

    The next steps depend on your results.

    • If they show you are a low cardiovascular risk, they will be sent to your GP who will let you know.
    • If they identify you as being a medium or high risk, you are likely to be referred to a cardiovascular consultant. They will discuss these results and may offer a tailored programme from our multidisciplinary team to help you manage your lifestyle. This could include input from physiotherapists and dieticians, who will make recommendations to minimise your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Our facilities

From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

  • London Bridge Hospital

    London Bridge Hospital

    27 Tooley Street

    London

    SE1 2PR

    Appointments & Enquiries 020 7234 2009
    Imaging Appointments 020 7234 2773

Request an appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

020 7079 4344
Book an appointment
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
back to top