HDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction
Measures cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in blood to help assess cholesterol status and cardiovascular risk.
["HDL cholesterol is one part of a blood lipid panel and is interpreted along with your other cholesterol results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54467-6
- Short code
- HDLc 2a MFr SerPl Elph
- Synonyms
- HDLc 2a MFr SerPl Elph
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 40
- Ref high
- 60
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- 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 cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein, or HDL. HDL helps transport cholesterol away from tissues back to the liver.
Why might I need this test?
HDL cholesterol is commonly measured as part of a lipid panel to evaluate cardiovascular risk. It may also be checked when monitoring treatment for high cholesterol or other conditions that affect blood lipids.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory. With the electrophoresis method, lipid components are separated so that HDL-associated cholesterol can be measured.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting. Some lipid tests are more useful when you have fasted for 9 to 12 hours, while others can be performed without fasting. Avoid vigorous exercise and alcohol for the period your clinician specifies, and tell the lab if you are pregnant.
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 lower HDL result may be associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly when other risk factors are present. A higher result is generally viewed as favorable, but it does not eliminate cardiovascular risk and must be interpreted with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your medical history. An unexpectedly abnormal result may also be influenced by fasting status, recent illness, medications, diabetes, or thyroid disorders.
Short name
HDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is a higher HDL cholesterol result always better?
Does this test require fasting?
Can medications affect HDL cholesterol?
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