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Goldstein-Meyer Ratio (Serum/Plasma Cholesterol and Triglycerides)

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

This test measures the ratio of your cholesterol to triglycerides in a blood sample, often used to assess lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["Helps evaluate how well your body processes fats and may indicate risk for heart disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33133-0
Short code
GA from TCD.Goldstein87
Synonyms
GA from TCD.Goldstein87
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-estimated-from-tcd-goldstein
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 This Test Measures

The test compares two key fat-related substances in your blood: cholesterol and triglycerides. Cholesterol is a type of fat that your body needs for cell function, but too much can build up in arteries. Triglycerides are another form of fat stored in your body. The ratio helps doctors assess how efficiently your liver processes these fats.

Why It Matters

A balanced ratio may suggest healthy fat metabolism, while an imbalance could signal conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, or metabolic disorders that increase heart disease risk.

How the Test Works

Blood is drawn and analyzed to measure both cholesterol and triglycerides separately. The test then calculates their ratio, which is expressed as a numerical value.

Common Uses

Doctors may order this test to monitor lipid disorders, evaluate metabolic syndrome, or assess response to treatments like diet or medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

GM Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What causes a test result to be checked differently than usual?
Your doctor may request this test if you have symptoms like high cholesterol, unexplained fatigue, or a family history of metabolic disorders. It’s also sometimes used in routine cardiovascular risk assessments.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
No special diet is required, but avoid heavy meals or alcohol 24 hours before testing to ensure accurate results.
  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