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Cholesteryl Esters, White Blood Cells — Cell Count

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

A specialized test that measures or counts cholesteryl ester material in white blood cells to help evaluate abnormal lipid handling.

Quick summary

["This specialized white blood cell test can provide clues about cholesterol-storage or lipid-handling disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24080-4
Short code
Cholest Est WBC-cCnt
Synonyms
Cholest Est WBC-cCnt
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.5
Ref high
11
Critical range
2 N/A – 30 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85004
SNOMED
900000000000003002
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 is a specialized laboratory test that examines cholesteryl ester material in white blood cells. It is different from a routine cholesterol or lipid panel.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when a clinician is evaluating a possible disorder of cholesterol handling or lipid storage, particularly when other blood-cell findings raise concern.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory isolates the white blood cells. A specialized laboratory method is then used to measure or count cholesteryl ester–related material in those cells.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow any instructions provided by the ordering clinician. Tell the laboratory if you have recently taken medicines or supplements that could affect blood-cell lipid measurements.

Reference range

Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cholesteryl ester white blood cell count

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine cholesterol test?
No. Routine cholesterol tests measure cholesterol in serum or plasma, while this test examines cholesteryl ester material in white blood cells.
Does an abnormal result mean I have a heart-related cholesterol disorder?
Not necessarily. This specialized test is more relevant to disorders of blood-cell lipid handling or lipid storage and is not used alone to assess cardiovascular risk.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually unnecessary. Follow the specific preparation instructions from the ordering clinician or laboratory.
  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