Serum or Plasma Free Cholesterol Concentration
This test measures the amount of cholesterol that is not bound to proteins in your blood, often called 'free cholesterol.' Cholesterol is a fat-like substance important for cell function, but high levels can contribute to heart disease.
["Understanding your free cholesterol helps assess overall heart health risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16775-9
- Short code
- DHC Free SerPl Ql Cfm
- Synonyms
- DHC Free SerPl Ql Cfm
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- confirm
- 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 This Test Matters
Free cholesterol is a component of total cholesterol, but it behaves differently than cholesterol bound to proteins. High free cholesterol can increase the risk of plaque buildup in arteries, which may lead to conditions like atherosclerosis. This test helps healthcare providers evaluate your lipid profile more precisely.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is processed to separate free cholesterol from protein-bound cholesterol. The test uses a method like enzymatic analysis to measure the free cholesterol concentration directly in your serum or plasma.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader lipid panel. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay still during the blood draw.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., milligrams per deciliter). While specific reference ranges vary by lab, high levels may signal increased cardiovascular risk, while low levels might warrant further investigation into cholesterol metabolism.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Free Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated or low free cholesterol?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or exercise affect free cholesterol levels?
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