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Cholesteryl Esters, Tissue — Cell Count

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

A tissue analysis that counts cells containing cholesteryl esters, which can help evaluate abnormal intracellular cholesterol storage.

Quick summary

["This test measures the number of tissue cells in which cholesteryl esters have accumulated."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59248-5
Short code
Cholest Est Tiss-cCnt
Synonyms
Cholest Est Tiss-cCnt
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 test examines a tissue sample for cholesteryl esters, a form of cholesterol stored inside cells. The reported cell count indicates how many cells in the sample contain these stored cholesterol esters.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when a clinician is evaluating a suspected disorder of cholesterol metabolism or lipid storage. The result can help show whether cholesterol is accumulating abnormally in tissue cells.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional usually obtains a small tissue specimen through a biopsy or another tissue-sampling procedure. The laboratory then uses a validated method to identify and count cells containing cholesteryl esters.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the biopsy procedure and any instructions provided by your healthcare team. Some procedures may require local anesthesia or stopping certain medicines, so confirm the instructions before the appointment.

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

Tissue Cholesteryl Ester Cell Count

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a blood cholesterol test?
No. This test examines tissue rather than measuring cholesterol concentration in blood.
Does the test require a biopsy?
A tissue sample is required and is usually obtained by biopsy. The exact procedure depends on the tissue being evaluated and instructions from your healthcare team.
What does a high cell count mean?
A high count may reflect excess cholesteryl-ester storage within tissue cells. It can support further evaluation for a cholesterol-handling or lipid-storage disorder, but it does not identify a specific diagnosis by itself.
  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