Serum or plasma cholesterol (total)

What Does This Test Measure?

Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood, essential for cell membranes and hormone production. Your body produces some cholesterol naturally, but it’s also obtained from dietary sources like animal products. This test quantifies the total cholesterol in your serum or plasma sample, combining cholesterol bound to proteins (lipoproteins) in your bloodstream.

Why Is This Test Important?

High cholesterol levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. While this test alone doesn’t diagnose heart disease, it’s a key part of a broader cardiovascular risk assessment.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum (if drawn without anticoagulants) or plasma (if drawn with anticoagulants) for analysis. The cholesterol is measured using a highly sensitive laboratory method, often automated and standardized to ensure accuracy.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated cholesterol may result from genetics, poor diet (high in saturated or trans fats), lack of physical activity, obesity, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism. Low cholesterol may occur with certain medications, liver disease, or malnutrition.