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Cholesteryl Esters, Dried Blood Spot — Substance Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

Measures cholesteryl esters in a dried blood spot to provide information about cholesterol handling and storage.

Quick summary

["This test measures cholesteryl esters in a dried blood spot to help evaluate how the body handles and stores cholesterol."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73958-1
Short code
Cholest Est DBS-cCnc
Synonyms
Cholest Est DBS-cCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
2
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 blood test measures the amount of cholesteryl esters, a form of stored cholesterol, in a dried blood spot. It provides information about cholesterol metabolism and storage.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered to evaluate a suspected inherited condition that affects cholesterol breakdown or storage. The reason for testing can vary, so discuss the intended purpose with your healthcare professional.

How is the test performed?

A small blood sample is collected from a fingertip or, in infants, the heel. The blood is placed on a special card, allowed to dry, and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow any instructions provided by the laboratory or ordering clinician. Tell the care team about medicines or supplements you use, and do not stop prescribed treatment without guidance.

Reference range

NCBI: SCC <2.0 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cholesteryl Esters (Dried Blood Spot)

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require fasting?
Fasting is usually unnecessary, but instructions can vary by laboratory. Confirm with the ordering clinician or laboratory before the collection.
Is a dried blood spot the same as a venous blood test?
No. A dried blood spot uses a small finger-prick or heel-prick sample, while a venous blood test uses blood collected from a vein. The two sample types are analyzed differently.
What does an abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result may suggest altered cholesterol handling or storage, but it is not diagnostic by itself. Your healthcare professional will interpret it alongside other findings and may recommend follow-up testing.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy