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Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein (CETP) Activity, Serum/Plasma

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

A specialized blood test that measures the activity of CETP, a protein involved in transferring cholesterol between lipoproteins.

Quick summary

["This test measures the activity of a cholesterol-transfer protein and is usually used in specialized evaluation of lipid metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74359-1
Short code
Cholest est trnsfr prot Act/Nor SerPl
Synonyms
Cholest est trnsfr prot Act/Nor SerPl
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86592
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 activity of cholesteryl ester transfer protein, or CETP. CETP helps move cholesterol and cholesterol esters between high-density and other lipoproteins in the blood.

Why might I need this test?

This is a specialized test that may be ordered when cholesterol levels or the distribution of cholesterol-carrying particles need further evaluation. It is not usually part of a routine cholesterol screening panel.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory measures CETP activity using a specialized assay. The result may be reported as enzyme activity or activity units, depending on the laboratory method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting may or may not be required, so follow the instructions provided by the ordering clinician or laboratory. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to, because some medicines can affect lipid measurements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CETP activity can be higher or lower than expected and may contribute to differences in how cholesterol is transported and distributed among lipoproteins. Results should be interpreted with other lipid tests, medical history, medicines, and the laboratory's reference interval. This test alone does not diagnose a specific condition.

Short name

CETP Activity

Frequently asked questions

Is CETP activity the same as a routine cholesterol test?
No. Routine cholesterol tests measure the amount of cholesterol in the blood, while this test measures the activity of a specific cholesterol-transfer protein.
What does a low or high CETP activity result mean?
It may indicate differences in lipid transport and can provide information about cardiovascular risk in certain clinical contexts. The meaning depends on the laboratory's method and your other cholesterol results, so your clinician should interpret it.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Preparation varies by laboratory. Ask the ordering clinician or testing laboratory whether fasting is required and for how long before the blood draw.
  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