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Cholesterol in Chylomicrons, Serum/Plasma — Qualitative

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

A qualitative serum/plasma test that detects cholesterol in the chylomicron fraction to evaluate triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and possible chylomicronemia.

Quick summary

["This test reports whether cholesterol-containing chylomicrons are detectable, which can help evaluate severe high triglycerides when interpreted alongside fasting status and other lipid results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35389-6
Short code
Cholest in Chylo SerPl Ql
Synonyms
Cholest in Chylo SerPl Ql
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 qualitative blood test detects cholesterol in chylomicrons, which are triglyceride-rich particles made in the intestine. It is not the same as a standard total cholesterol measurement.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used when very high triglycerides, recurrent pancreatitis, eruptive xanthomas, or a possible inherited chylomicron disorder is suspected. Results are usually interpreted with a lipid panel, fasting status, and other clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and serum or plasma is prepared for laboratory analysis. The laboratory evaluates the chylomicron fraction and reports a qualitative result, such as present or not detected, rather than a numeric cholesterol concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's instructions, which may include an overnight fast. Chylomicrons normally increase after a fat-containing meal, so a nonfasting result must be interpreted differently from a fasting result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Qualitative chylomicron cholesterol test

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a total cholesterol test?
No. A total cholesterol test measures cholesterol throughout the blood, while this test specifically evaluates whether cholesterol is present in the chylomicron fraction.
What does a positive result mean?
It means chylomicrons were detected. This can be expected after a fatty meal, but in a fasting sample it may indicate unusually high triglyceride-rich particles or a chylomicron metabolism disorder.
Do I need to fast before this test?
The laboratory may request an overnight fast because chylomicrons normally rise after meals. Confirm the preparation instructions before your 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