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Lipid Panel with Calculated Ratios — Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, and Triglycerides

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

A blood test that measures total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides and may calculate LDL cholesterol and cholesterol ratios.

Quick summary

["This panel helps assess cardiovascular risk by measuring cholesterol and triglyceride levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36128-7
Short code
CT Should W contr IS
Synonyms
CT Should W contr IS
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.4
Ref high
4
Critical range
0.1 N/A – 20 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
CPT
84443
SNOMED
301343003
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 lipids, including total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. The results may also be used to calculate LDL cholesterol and cholesterol ratios.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to help assess cardiovascular risk, monitor cholesterol-lowering treatment, or evaluate conditions that can affect blood lipids.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. Some results may be calculated from the measured cholesterol and triglyceride values.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Fasting may be requested in some cases, especially when triglycerides or calculated LDL cholesterol are being evaluated, but it is not always necessary.

Reference range

Adult: 0.4-4.0 mIU/LN/A

Specimen: serum

Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated total or LDL cholesterol and elevated triglycerides can increase cardiovascular risk, while a low HDL cholesterol may also be relevant. Calculated cholesterol ratios can help summarize the pattern of results, but they do not diagnose heart disease by themselves. Abnormal findings may lead to repeat testing, lifestyle counseling, or further medical evaluation.

Short name

Calculated lipid panel

Frequently asked questions

What does HDL cholesterol mean?
HDL is often called “good cholesterol” because it carries cholesterol away from the arteries back to the liver. A higher HDL level is generally considered favorable, although overall cardiovascular risk depends on several factors.
Why are calculated values included in the panel?
Calculated values, such as LDL cholesterol and cholesterol ratios, are derived from the measured results. They provide additional information for assessing cardiovascular risk.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting may be advised for certain lipid tests, particularly when triglycerides are being evaluated. Ask your healthcare professional whether fasting is required for your specific order.
  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