Skip to content

Cholesteryl Esters, Serum — Concentration

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

A blood test that measures cholesteryl esters, a major form of cholesterol carried by blood lipoproteins, usually as part of a lipid assessment.

Quick summary

["This test measures how much cholesterol is present in the esterified form in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2083-4
Short code
Cholest Est Ser-cCnc
Synonyms
Cholest Est Ser-cCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
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 cholesteryl esters in serum. Cholesteryl esters are the form in which most cholesterol circulates in the blood, attached to lipoproteins that transport it through the body.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to assess cholesterol levels or as part of a broader lipid evaluation. It is often reviewed along with LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your overall cardiovascular risk.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow. The serum is analyzed in the laboratory to determine the concentration of cholesteryl esters.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required for this test by itself. Follow your clinician’s instructions about fasting, because fasting may be requested when this test is combined with other lipid measurements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated cholesteryl ester concentration generally reflects an increased amount of cholesterol in the blood and may be associated with higher cardiovascular risk. Interpretation depends on the rest of the lipid panel and factors such as diet, weight, diabetes, smoking, and family history. This result should be reviewed by a healthcare professional rather than interpreted alone.

Short name

Cholesteryl ester test

Frequently asked questions

How is this different from a total cholesterol test?
Total cholesterol measures overall cholesterol in the blood, including both free cholesterol and cholesteryl esters. A cholesteryl ester test focuses specifically on the esterified portion.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is not usually required for this test alone, but it may be required when it is ordered with a complete lipid panel. Confirm any preparation instructions with your clinician or laboratory.
What does a high result mean?
A high result usually indicates increased circulating cholesterol. Your clinician will interpret it with your other lipid results, medical history, and cardiovascular risk factors to determine whether any follow-up is needed.
  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