Skip to content

Cholesterol (Total) in Serum

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

This test measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, which is an important part of your overall heart health.

Quick summary

["Cholesterol levels help assess your risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36018-0
Short code
CT Hip-L
Synonyms
CT Hip-L
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check your cholesterol levels as part of a general health screening, to monitor existing heart health conditions, or to evaluate risk factors for conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

What Does a High or Low Level Mean?

High cholesterol levels may increase your risk of plaque buildup in your arteries, which can lead to heart attack or stroke. Low cholesterol levels might be associated with other health concerns, but this depends on your overall health status and medical history.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, typically in a clinic or lab setting. The sample is then processed to measure cholesterol concentration using a chemical analysis method.

What Are Common Reference Ranges?

Reference ranges can vary by lab and individual factors, so your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your specific needs.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Will I Need to Prepare for This Test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the test if it is part of a lipid panel (cholesterol and triglyceride test). Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
How Long Will I Wait for Results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab and healthcare provider’s workflow. Your provider will discuss the results with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I Eat or Drink Before This Test?
If fasting is required for this test (common for cholesterol panels), avoid food and liquids (except water) for 12 hours beforehand. Check with your provider for specific instructions.
  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