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Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

This blood test measures the concentration of cholesterol in serum or plasma and may be used to assess cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["A cholesterol test helps evaluate blood cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35200-5
Short code
Cholest SerPl-msCnc
Synonyms
Cholest SerPl-msCnc
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 test measures the amount of cholesterol in a blood sample. Cholesterol is a fatty substance made by the body and obtained from food; it is transported in the blood within lipoproteins.

Why might I need this test?

A cholesterol test may be ordered to assess cardiovascular risk, monitor treatment for high cholesterol, or evaluate conditions that can affect cholesterol levels. It is often part of a broader lipid panel, which may also include HDL and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional draws blood from a vein, usually from the arm. The sample is sent to a laboratory, where the cholesterol concentration is measured and reported as a mass concentration, meaning the amount of cholesterol in the blood sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your healthcare professional's instructions about fasting. Some cholesterol tests may be measured without fasting, while others are performed after an overnight fast. Continue taking medicines as directed unless your clinician tells you otherwise.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require fasting?
It depends on the test and the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Some cholesterol measurements can be done without fasting, but a lipid panel may be ordered after an overnight fast.
Is cholesterol the same as LDL or HDL?
No. LDL and HDL are types of lipoprotein particles that carry cholesterol in the blood. A cholesterol measurement may be reported as total cholesterol, while LDL and HDL are often measured separately in a lipid panel.
What can affect cholesterol results?
Diet, body weight, physical activity, smoking, alcohol use, and medications can influence cholesterol levels. Illness, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions may also affect results.
  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