Cholesterol and Triglyceride Ratio (High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol to Total Cholesterol Ratio)
This test measures the proportion of HDL (good cholesterol) relative to your total cholesterol, helping assess cardiovascular risk.
["A lower HDL:TC ratio may indicate higher cholesterol-related risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33049-8
- Short code
- CHT NFr RBC
- Synonyms
- CHT NFr RBC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 This Test Measures
Your blood sample is analyzed to determine the ratio of HDL cholesterol to your total cholesterol. HDL is often called 'good' cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream. Total cholesterol includes HDL, LDL (bad cholesterol), and other fats. The ratio helps doctors evaluate your overall cholesterol profile and cardiovascular health.
Why It Matters
A higher HDL:TC ratio suggests better cholesterol management, as HDL helps protect against plaque buildup in arteries. Conversely, a lower ratio may signal higher risk for conditions like atherosclerosis or heart disease.
How It’s Performed
This test is typically drawn from a blood sample collected in a tube. Your blood is processed to separate components, and the ratio of HDL to total cholesterol is calculated using standard laboratory methods.
Preparation Tips
No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be required depending on your lab’s protocol. Avoid smoking or heavy meals before the test.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HDL:TC Ratio
Frequently asked questions
This ratio is not a standalone diagnostic tool but is used alongside other cholesterol tests (e.g., LDL, triglycerides) to assess cardiovascular risk. A lower ratio may prompt further evaluation for lifestyle changes or medications.
Your HDL:TC ratio may change with diet, exercise, or medications like statins. If you have concerns, discuss your results with your healthcare provider.
Is this test the same as HDL cholesterol alone? No, this ratio combines HDL with total cholesterol to give a broader view of your lipid profile.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy