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High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures HDL cholesterol in blood. HDL helps transport cholesterol away from arteries, and its level is interpreted with the rest of your cholesterol profile.

Quick summary

["HDL cholesterol helps assess cardiovascular risk, with higher levels generally considered more protective."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47220-9
Short code
HDL4+5c SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
HDL4+5c 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 the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in your blood. HDL is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol between tissues and the liver.

Why might I need this test?

HDL cholesterol is usually measured as part of a lipid panel to help assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. Your clinician also considers LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and your overall health history.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually from your arm. The laboratory uses a chemical or enzymatic method to measure HDL cholesterol in the serum or plasma portion of the sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting. Fasting may occasionally be requested, but many lipid panels can be performed without fasting. Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, taking cholesterol-lowering medicines, or recently ill, because these factors may affect the results.

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

HDL cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is HDL cholesterol the same as "good cholesterol"?
Often, yes. HDL is commonly called "good cholesterol" because it helps move cholesterol away from artery walls, although HDL itself is a particle containing both cholesterol and other substances.
Does a high HDL cholesterol result eliminate my heart disease risk?
No. A high HDL result is generally favorable, but it does not cancel out other risks such as high LDL cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Can HDL cholesterol be raised without medication?
Regular aerobic exercise, a heart-healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco may help improve HDL cholesterol. Your clinician can recommend steps based on your full lipid profile and medical history.
  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