HDL3 Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration
Measures the amount of HDL3 cholesterol, one of the subclasses of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), in serum or plasma.
["HDL3 cholesterol is a component of HDL, and its level is interpreted along with the rest of your lipid profile and cardiovascular risk factors."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26017-4
- Short code
- HDL3c SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- HDL3c SerPl-sCnc
- 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 HDL3 cholesterol in a blood sample. HDL3 is one of several chemically different forms of high-density lipoprotein, a blood component that carries cholesterol away from tissues and back to the liver.
Why might I need this test?
HDL3 cholesterol may be included as part of a broader lipid panel or advanced cholesterol assessment. Your clinician may use it to help evaluate cholesterol transport and cardiovascular risk, particularly when other lipid results need more context.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and separated into serum or plasma. The laboratory then measures the amount of HDL3 cholesterol using an analytical method appropriate for the test.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting and medication use. Although some lipid tests are performed after fasting, this test may also be interpreted alongside a nonfastening lipid panel, so ask the ordering clinician if you are unsure.
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.
HDL3 levels can vary between individuals and are influenced by genetics, diet, physical activity, weight, medications, and other health conditions. A lower or higher result does not by itself establish a specific disease and should be interpreted with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, other HDL measurements, and your overall cardiovascular risk. Your clinician can explain what this result means for you.
Short name
HDL3 cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is HDL3 the same as HDL cholesterol?
Does a high HDL3 result always protect against heart disease?
What should I do if my HDL3 result is abnormal?
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