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Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of cholesterol in your blood. This test is commonly used to help assess cardiovascular risk and monitor cholesterol-lowering treatment.

Quick summary

["A blood cholesterol test helps evaluate heart and blood vessel risk and may be used to monitor treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14647-2
Short code
Cholest SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Cholest SerPl-sCnc
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 cholesterol concentration in serum or plasma, the liquid portion of a blood sample. Your clinician may use the result as part of a broader assessment of cardiovascular risk.

Why might I need this test?

You may need this test during routine screening, if you have risk factors for heart disease, or if you are taking medication to lower cholesterol. It is also commonly repeated to monitor treatment.

How is the test performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in a laboratory. The result is usually reported along with other lipid measurements, such as HDL and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting, as some cholesterol tests may be measured after an overnight fast. Drinking water is generally encouraged, and tell the healthcare professional if you are pregnant or taking medication that may affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cholesterol Test

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure all types of cholesterol?
The result measures total cholesterol in the blood. Your laboratory report may also list HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and calculated values such as non-HDL cholesterol.
Do I need to fast before the test?
Fasting may be recommended, but requirements vary by clinician and laboratory. Ask your healthcare professional whether you should avoid food and drinks other than water before the blood draw.
Can medications affect the result?
Yes. Cholesterol-lowering medicines and some other medications can affect cholesterol levels. Do not stop or change prescribed medication without medical advice.
  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