Skip to content

Apolipoprotein A-I to HDL Cholesterol Ratio, Serum/Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A blood test that compares apolipoprotein A-I, a major HDL protein, with HDL cholesterol to help assess cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["This ratio can help evaluate cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk when interpreted with your other lipid results."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56035-9
Short code
Apo A-I/HDLc SerPl
Synonyms
Apo A-I/HDLc SerPl
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
40
Ref high
60
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83700
SNOMED
113079008
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I), a major protein in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and compares its concentration with HDL cholesterol. The ApoA-I/HDL-C ratio is used as part of a broader assessment of cholesterol and cardiovascular risk.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order it when evaluating lipid levels, a family history of heart disease, or an elevated cardiovascular risk. It may also be used to help interpret borderline or unusual results from a standard lipid panel.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and ApoA-I and HDL cholesterol are measured in the laboratory. The ratio is then calculated from the results.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's fasting instructions, because food can affect lipid measurements. If no specific instructions were provided, ask whether fasting is required and avoid unusually heavy meals or alcohol shortly before the test if possible.

Reference range

Adult males: >40 mg/dL; Females: >50 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 12-14 hours preferred. Water is permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ApoA-I/HDL-C ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as an HDL cholesterol test?
No. HDL cholesterol measures the amount of cholesterol carried in HDL, while this test also considers the amount of ApoA-I protein in HDL.
Does a higher ratio always mean better health?
Not necessarily. A higher ratio can reflect a favorable HDL profile, but overall cardiovascular risk also depends on LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, other biomarkers, and personal health factors.
Does this test require fasting?
Fasting may be recommended, especially when the test is ordered with other lipid measurements. Follow the specific instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy