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Cholesterol-to-Phospholipid Ratio, Serum/Plasma

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

A serum or plasma test that compares the amounts of cholesterol and phospholipids to help evaluate lipid metabolism.

Quick summary

["This ratio provides context about cholesterol relative to phospholipids but should be interpreted with the individual lipid results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55838-7
Short code
Cholest/Phospholipid SerPl-sRto
Synonyms
Cholest/Phospholipid SerPl-sRto
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
true
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?

The cholesterol-to-phospholipid ratio compares the measured amounts of cholesterol and phospholipids in a blood sample. Phospholipids are a group of fats that help transport cholesterol and other lipids in the blood.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered to help evaluate lipid metabolism or as part of a broader assessment of cholesterol, liver function, or cardiovascular risk. It is generally interpreted alongside the separate cholesterol and phospholipid measurements rather than as a stand-alone result.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected into a serum or plasma tube. The laboratory measures cholesterol and phospholipids and then calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any preparation instructions provided by your clinician. If this test is being ordered with other lipid tests, fasting may be required; do not fast unless specifically instructed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cholesterol/Phospholipid Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure cholesterol by itself?
No. The test reports a calculated comparison of cholesterol and phospholipid levels. The individual results are often needed to understand what is driving the ratio.
Is fasting required for this test?
Fasting depends on the reason the test was ordered and the laboratory's instructions. It may be required when the ratio is part of a larger lipid-profile evaluation.
Can an abnormal ratio diagnose a specific condition?
No. An abnormal ratio can have several causes and must be interpreted with other findings by a qualified healthcare professional.
  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