Skip to content

Cholesterol, Serum — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the total amount of cholesterol in a blood sample, including cholesterol carried by LDL and HDL particles.

Quick summary

["This blood test measures total cholesterol and helps assess cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14442-8
Short code
Cholest Smn-mCnc
Synonyms
Cholest Smn-mCnc
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 concentration of total cholesterol in serum, the liquid portion of blood. Total cholesterol includes cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and other lipoproteins.

Why might I need this test?

Cholesterol testing may be used to assess cardiovascular risk or monitor treatment for high cholesterol. It is often part of a broader lipid panel that may also include HDL cholesterol, 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 amount of cholesterol per unit volume of serum.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional about fasting. Some lipid tests are more accurate after an overnight fast, while others may not require fasting. Continue prescribed medications unless you are told otherwise.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as an LDL cholesterol test?
No. This test measures total cholesterol, which includes cholesterol carried by LDL, HDL, and other particles. A lipid panel usually provides separate LDL and HDL results.
Do I need to fast before this test?
It depends on the laboratory and the reason for testing. Fasting may be recommended for a complete lipid panel, so follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory.
What can affect my cholesterol result?
Diet, weight, physical activity, smoking, health conditions, and medications can affect cholesterol levels. A single result does not always indicate long-term cholesterol status.
  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