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Cholesterol, Total, Serum/Plasma

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

Measures total cholesterol in blood, including cholesterol carried by LDL and HDL, to help assess cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["This blood test measures total cholesterol and helps evaluate the risk of heart disease and stroke."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110258-1
Short code
Cholest Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
Cholest Msmt SerPl
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?

A total cholesterol test measures the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance made by the body and obtained from foods, and it is needed for normal cell function.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to screen for high cholesterol or monitor cholesterol treatment. It is often part of a lipid panel that also measures HDL and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in a laboratory. The result is reported as the concentration of total cholesterol in the blood.

How do I prepare for the test?

You may be asked to fast for several hours before the test, depending on the laboratory and whether other lipid measurements are being performed. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional, and tell them if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medicines.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A high total cholesterol result may increase the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries, also called atherosclerosis. This can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. Low cholesterol can occur for several reasons and should be interpreted along with the rest of your medical evaluation.

Short name

Total Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is total cholesterol the same as LDL cholesterol?
No. Total cholesterol includes LDL, HDL, and other cholesterol carried in the blood. LDL is often called “bad” cholesterol, while HDL is often called “good” cholesterol.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting may be required, especially when the test is part of a complete lipid panel. Ask your healthcare professional or laboratory for specific instructions.
Can medicines affect the result?
Yes. Cholesterol-lowering medicines and certain other treatments can affect the result. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your healthcare professional tells you to do so.
  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