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HDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

This blood test measures the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in your blood. HDL helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver.

Quick summary

["HDL cholesterol is one part of a complete cholesterol profile, and the amount in your blood helps inform your cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50409-2
Short code
HDL2+3c SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
HDL2+3c SerPl-mCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
40
Ref high
60
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83700
SNOMED
113079008
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 the concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in serum or plasma. HDL is a protein that carries cholesterol in the blood.

Why might I need this test?

HDL cholesterol is commonly included in a lipid panel to help assess cardiovascular risk. Your clinician may also order it to monitor cholesterol treatment, diabetes, or other conditions that affect heart health.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The laboratory separates HDL from the other blood components and measures the amount of cholesterol it contains.

How do I prepare for the test?

You usually do not need to fast specifically for an HDL cholesterol test. If it is being ordered with other tests, such as triglycerides or a complete lipid panel, follow any fasting instructions provided by your clinician.

Reference range

Adult males: >40 mg/dL; Females: >50 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 12-14 hours preferred. Water is permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HDL cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is a higher HDL cholesterol result always better?
Higher HDL levels are generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk, but raising HDL with medication has not consistently been shown to prevent heart disease. Your clinician will consider HDL along with the rest of your cholesterol results and your other risk factors.
Does HDL cholesterol mean all cholesterol is good?
No. HDL is one component of your body's cholesterol profile. LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and other factors also influence cardiovascular risk.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is generally not required for an HDL test by itself. If your clinician requested a lipid panel or other tests that may require fasting, follow the instructions they provide.
  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