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Cholesterol, Serum

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

A blood test that measures total cholesterol, helping assess cardiovascular risk and guide diet, lifestyle, or treatment decisions.

Quick summary

["This test measures total cholesterol in your blood, an important marker associated with heart and blood vessel disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70263-9
Short code
Chol Pcar/Ser
Synonyms
Chol Pcar/Ser
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 total amount of cholesterol in a blood sample. Cholesterol is a natural substance used by the body, and blood cholesterol is evaluated as part of assessing cardiovascular risk.

Why might I need this test?

You may need this test during a routine health check, when screening for high cholesterol, or when monitoring cholesterol-lowering treatment. Your clinician may consider it together with other lipids, such as HDL and LDL cholesterol.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional draws a small amount of blood from a vein, usually from your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to determine the cholesterol concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions from your clinician or laboratory. Some laboratories recommend fasting for several hours, while others do not. Unless you have been told otherwise, continue taking your medicines and drink water as usual.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A high cholesterol result may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, particularly when other cardiovascular risk factors are also present. Low cholesterol can occur with dietary changes, certain medicines, or other health conditions. Your clinician will interpret the result using your overall health, risk factors, and any related cholesterol tests.

Short name

Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Does a cholesterol test measure every type of cholesterol?
A basic total cholesterol test measures cholesterol overall. A complete lipid panel also measures LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, which provide more detail about cardiovascular risk.
Do I need to fast before this test?
It depends on the laboratory and the reason for testing. If fasting is required, it is commonly for 8 to 12 hours, with water generally permitted. Confirm the instructions before your appointment.
Can medicines or other health conditions affect the result?
Yes. Cholesterol-lowering medicines, other medicines, recent illness, and changes in diet or weight can affect cholesterol levels. Tell your clinician about relevant medicines and health conditions.
  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