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High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum

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

Measures HDL (“good”) cholesterol in blood serum. It is commonly interpreted with total cholesterol and triglyceride results to help assess cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["HDL cholesterol is one measure used alongside other lipids to assess cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96589-7
Short code
Cholest/HDLc DBS
Synonyms
Cholest/HDLc DBS
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
40
Ref high
60
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83700
SNOMED
113079008
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 measures high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in blood serum. HDL helps transport cholesterol away from artery walls to the liver, which is why it is often called “good” cholesterol.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test as part of a cholesterol screening or follow-up. HDL is interpreted with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides to help estimate cardiovascular risk.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in a laboratory to measure the amount of cholesterol carried by HDL. The result is usually reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) in the United States.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting may or may not be required, depending on the other lipid tests being ordered and your clinician’s instructions. Follow the instructions provided, and tell the laboratory if you have recently changed medications or supplements.

Reference range

Adult males: >40 mg/dL; Females: >50 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 12-14 hours preferred. Water is permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HDL cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is a higher HDL cholesterol result always better?
Higher HDL is generally considered favorable, but the result does not prove that cardiovascular risk is low or high by itself. Overall risk depends on other cholesterol measurements and personal health factors.
Do I need to fast for an HDL cholesterol test?
Fasting is not always required for HDL alone, although it may be requested when it is part of a complete lipid panel. Follow your clinician’s or laboratory’s specific preparation instructions.
What can raise or lower HDL cholesterol?
Exercise, weight loss, and smoking cessation may help improve HDL levels, while smoking, obesity, and some medical conditions may lower them. Changes should be discussed with your clinician rather than made solely to affect a lab result.
  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