Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, and Triglycerides, Plasma/Whole Blood — Concentrations
A lipid blood test measuring total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. These results help assess cardiovascular risk and may be used to calculate LDL cholesterol.
["This lipid test helps assess cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk and may support calculation of LDL cholesterol."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69105-5
- Short code
- CT Hip-L W contr IS
- Synonyms
- CT Hip-L W contr IS
- Category
- liver
- 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
What is this test?
This test measures three lipids in a blood sample: total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. Together, the results provide part of a lipid assessment and may be used with other values to calculate LDL cholesterol.
Why might I need this test?
Clinicians commonly order these measurements to evaluate cardiovascular risk, monitor cholesterol-lowering treatment, or investigate abnormal lipid results. They may also be checked as part of routine preventive care or when diabetes, thyroid disease, or other metabolic conditions are being evaluated.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The lab measures the concentrations of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides; any calculated LDL result depends on the method and the other values available.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the preparation instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Fasting may be requested for this test, so do not eat or drink other than water for the specified period if instructed. Tell the lab if you are pregnant or taking cholesterol-lowering medication.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated total cholesterol or triglycerides can increase cardiovascular risk, while low HDL cholesterol may also contribute to risk assessment. Abnormal values can occur with diet, medications, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and some liver conditions. Results should be interpreted by a clinician along with your medical history and other risk factors.
Short name
Total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides
Frequently asked questions
Does this test include LDL cholesterol?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What do HDL and triglycerides measure?
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