High-Density Lipoprotein 3 Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
Measures the amount of cholesterol in HDL3, a subfraction of high-density lipoprotein, in serum or plasma.
["This specialized lipid test measures how much cholesterol is carried in HDL3 particles."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35243-5
- Short code
- HDL3c SerPl-msCnc
- Synonyms
- HDL3c SerPl-msCnc
- 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 cholesterol in high-density lipoprotein 3 (HDL3) particles. HDL3 is one of several subfractions of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which transports cholesterol and other lipids in the blood.
Why might I need this test?
HDL3 cholesterol is generally measured during specialized evaluation of lipid metabolism or blood cholesterol particles. It may be included with a broader lipid assessment but is not usually a stand-alone routine test.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and separated into serum or plasma. The laboratory then measures the amount of cholesterol associated with HDL3 in the sample.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting may be requested when this test is ordered with other cholesterol tests, so follow your clinician's instructions. If fasting is required, water is usually allowed, and you should not stop prescribed medication unless instructed to do so.
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.
An HDL3 cholesterol result outside the expected range may reflect differences in lipid metabolism or HDL particle composition. This result should be interpreted with total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and other cardiovascular risk factors. An isolated abnormal HDL3 value does not by itself diagnose a disease.
Short name
HDL3 Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is HDL3 cholesterol the same as total HDL cholesterol?
Do I need to fast for this test?
Does a low HDL3 cholesterol result mean I have heart disease?
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