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Cholesterol — Mass Concentration

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

Measures cholesterol concentration in a blood sample to help assess cardiovascular risk and guide diet, medication, or further testing.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate your cholesterol level and overall risk of heart and blood vessel disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14443-6
Short code
Cholest Snv-mCnc
Synonyms
Cholest Snv-mCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the concentration of cholesterol in a blood sample. It is commonly used to evaluate cardiovascular risk and may be part of a broader lipid panel.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to screen for high cholesterol, evaluate inherited or secondary lipid disorders, or monitor the effects of diet, weight loss, and cholesterol-lowering treatment.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, usually with a venous blood draw, and the laboratory measures its cholesterol concentration. The sample may be tested alone or as part of a complete lipid panel.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is often not required for routine cholesterol testing, but follow your clinician's instructions. Tell the healthcare team if you have recently eaten or fasted, because this can affect the interpretation of the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher-than-expected cholesterol concentration may increase cardiovascular risk and can reflect dietary habits, an inherited tendency, or another medical condition. A lower-than-expected result may occur with low cholesterol intake, certain illnesses, malabsorption, or medications. The result should be interpreted with other lipid measurements and your overall health history.

Short name

Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
Not always. Some laboratories or clinicians request fasting, so follow the specific instructions provided with the test order.
Does one cholesterol result diagnose heart disease?
No. Cholesterol is one factor in cardiovascular risk and is interpreted alongside blood pressure, smoking status, family history, and other laboratory results.
Should I repeat the test?
Your clinician may recommend repeat testing to confirm an unexpected result or monitor progress. The timing depends on your treatment, health history, and the reason for testing.
  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