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Serum or plasma concentration of a substance related to lipid metabolism (e.g., apolipoprotein or lipoprotein particle measurement)

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

This test measures certain proteins involved in managing fats in your blood, which can help assess your risk for heart disease or other health conditions.

Quick summary

["Helps evaluate lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk factors."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85825-8
Short code
OXA23
Synonyms
blaOXA-23-like Islt/Spm Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof specimen container; appropriate transport medium for bacterial isolate or clinical specimen as specified by laboratory
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
molgen
CPT
87798
SNOMED
122451000221101
Specimen volume
Pure bacterial isolate on appropriate solid medium (e.g., blood agar, MacConkey agar) or 1-2 mL of clinical specimen in sterile container
Stability
Bacterial isolates: stable at 2-8°C for up to 7 days on appropriate transport medium. Clinical specimens: process within 2 hours of collection at room temperature or refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours. Store DNA extracts at -20°C or -80°C for long-term storage.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of high cholesterol, heart disease risk factors (like high blood pressure or a family history), or if you’re being monitored for conditions affecting fat metabolism. It may also be used in routine check-ups for adults over 20 or those with specific health concerns.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves blood drawn from a vein. If you’re taking certain medications, let your provider know. Avoid smoking or strenuous activity for 30 minutes before the draw.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood (serum or plasma) is collected via a needle into a tube. The lab then analyzes the sample using advanced techniques (such as immunoassay or nephelometry) to measure specific protein levels linked to fat metabolism.

What the Results Mean

Results help identify imbalances in proteins that regulate cholesterol, triglycerides, or other fats in your blood. Abnormal levels may signal conditions like high cholesterol, inflammation, or metabolic disorders that require further evaluation.

Reference range

Negative for blaOXA-23-like gene. Reportable as Detected or Not Detected. Quantitative values are not typically reported; presence/absence qualitative result only.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Standard aseptic specimen collection techniques apply.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated or low levels of these proteins can indicate underlying health issues, such as dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid levels), chronic inflammation, or genetic disorders affecting fat metabolism. Early detection may guide treatment to improve cardiovascular health or prevent complications.

Short name

Lipid-related protein/plasma measurement

Frequently asked questions

What does a ‘normal’ result mean?
A ‘normal’ result doesn’t mean your health is perfect—it simply means the protein levels fall within the expected range for your age and health status. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and medical history.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. Some people get it annually, while others may need it less frequently or more often depending on their condition.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (common for blood tests), avoid food and liquids—except water—for 8–12 hours before the test. If no fasting is needed, you can eat and drink normally, but check with your provider for specifics.
  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