HDL2 Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
Measures the amount of cholesterol in the HDL2 subclass in blood. It may be used as part of a specialized assessment of cholesterol distribution.
["HDL2 cholesterol is a blood measurement of cholesterol carried within a specific high-density lipoprotein subclass."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9832-7
- Short code
- HDL2c SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- HDL2c 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 HDL2 cholesterol in serum or plasma. HDL2 is a subclass of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), a blood component that carries cholesterol and other lipids around the body.
Why might I need this test?
HDL subclass testing may be ordered to examine how cholesterol is distributed among different types of HDL. It can provide additional information in selected cholesterol evaluations, although it is not commonly used by itself to determine cardiovascular risk.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory separates and measures the HDL2 fraction using specialized laboratory methods. The result is reported as a mass concentration, or amount per unit volume of blood.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting and medication use. If you are also having a standard lipid panel, fasting may be requested because food can affect blood lipid measurements.
Reference range
Adult males: >40 mg/dL; Females: >50 mg/dLN/A
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.
HDL2 cholesterol varies among individuals and may change with overall cholesterol levels, metabolic conditions, medications, and other factors. A result should be interpreted with the full lipid panel, medical history, and cardiovascular risk assessment rather than as a stand-alone measure of heart disease risk.
Short name
HDL2 Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is HDL2 cholesterol the same as total HDL cholesterol?
Does a higher HDL2 cholesterol result always mean better health?
Do I need to fast before this test?
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