High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Ultracentrifugation, Mass Concentration
Measures HDL cholesterol in blood using ultracentrifugation. HDL helps transport cholesterol away from arteries to the liver.
["HDL cholesterol is a measure of the blood's protective, cholesterol-carrying HDL particles."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26016-6
- Short code
- HDL2c SerPl.Ultracent-mCnc
- Synonyms
- HDL2c SerPl.Ultracent-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 amount of cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in serum or plasma. HDL is sometimes called "good cholesterol" because it helps move cholesterol away from artery walls and back toward the liver.
Why might I need this test?
HDL cholesterol is usually assessed as part of a lipid panel to help evaluate cardiovascular risk. The result is interpreted along with total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, and your overall health history.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn and separated into serum or plasma. In the laboratory, ultracentrifugation is used to separate lipoprotein particles by density, after which the cholesterol in the HDL fraction is measured.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's or laboratory's instructions about fasting. Some lipid tests are performed without fasting, while others may request several hours of fasting. Avoid heavy exercise and alcohol before the test if instructed, because they can temporarily affect 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.
A higher HDL cholesterol level generally reflects a more favorable cardiovascular risk profile, while a lower level may indicate increased risk, particularly when other risk factors are present. HDL levels should not be interpreted alone because genetics, body weight, diabetes, smoking, medications, and other conditions can affect them. Very high HDL levels may warrant discussion with a clinician, especially when they occur unexpectedly or alongside other abnormal findings.
Short name
HDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is HDL cholesterol the same as "good cholesterol"?
Do I need to fast for this test?
What can change my HDL cholesterol level?
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