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HDL3 Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of HDL3 cholesterol in blood. HDL3 is one of the subtypes of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which helps transport cholesterol away from tissues.

Quick summary

["HDL3 cholesterol is a specialized measurement of one form of HDL that is not often interpreted on its own."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9833-5
Short code
HDL3c SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
HDL3c 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 blood test measures HDL3 cholesterol. HDL3 is a smaller fraction of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), a group of particles that carry cholesterol between tissues and the liver.

Why might I need this test?

HDL3 may be measured as part of a specialized lipid evaluation or research assessment. It is sometimes considered alongside other HDL fractions when evaluating cholesterol transport and cardiovascular risk.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, usually from a vein, and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory separates and quantifies the HDL3 cholesterol in the serum or plasma; the specific laboratory method is not provided in the test code.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's fasting instructions. This test may be ordered with a lipid panel, for which fasting may be requested for 8 to 12 hours; water is generally allowed. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to do so.

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

HDL3 cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is HDL3 the same as HDL?
No. HDL3 is one of several fractions of HDL. A standard HDL cholesterol measurement usually reports total HDL rather than each HDL subfraction separately.
Does a high HDL3 result mean I am free from heart disease?
No. HDL levels are only one part of cardiovascular risk assessment. Blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, diabetes, smoking, family history, and other factors must also be considered.
Why is HDL3 testing not routinely available?
Standard lipid testing usually measures total HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. Measuring HDL3 requires specialized laboratory methods, so it is more often used in selected assessments than routine screening.
  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