Cholesterol in Chylomicrons (Serum)
This test measures the cholesterol content within chylomicrons, a type of lipoprotein that carries dietary fats from the intestines into the bloodstream. It helps assess how efficiently your body processes and transports fats.
["Chylomicrons play a role in fat metabolism and may be evaluated alongside other lipid tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95808-2
- Short code
- Cholest+triglyceride+chylomicrons Pnl Ur
- Synonyms
- Cholest+triglyceride+chylomicrons Pnl Ur
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 150
- Fasting
- true
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84478
- SNOMED
- 272076007
- 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
Why This Test Matters
Chylomicrons are the largest lipoprotein particles, formed after you eat a high-fat meal. They transport dietary triglycerides and cholesterol from your digestive system into your bloodstream. Elevated levels of chylomicrons can sometimes indicate issues with fat metabolism, though they are less commonly measured than other lipid profiles.
What to Expect Before the Test
To get accurate results, your doctor may instruct you to fast for 8–12 hours before this test. Avoid eating or drinking anything except water during this time. If you have a history of digestive issues, let your healthcare provider know, as this may affect your results.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate chylomicrons from other blood components. The cholesterol content in these particles is measured using a specialized laboratory technique.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a concentration of cholesterol within chylomicrons, though specific reference ranges vary by lab. High levels may suggest abnormal fat metabolism or conditions like hyperlipidemia, while normal levels indicate efficient fat processing.
Reference range
Normal: <150 mg/dLN/A
Fasting for 12-14 hours preferred. Water is permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Chylomicron cholesterol is less commonly monitored than traditional lipid tests (like LDL or HDL) but can be important in diagnosing rare genetic disorders affecting fat metabolism, such as chylomicronemia syndrome. Elevated levels may also indicate underlying digestive or liver issues that affect fat absorption.
Short name
Chylomicron Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated chylomicron cholesterol levels?
How can I lower chylomicron cholesterol?
Is this test often included in routine blood work?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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