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HDL Cholesterol, HDL-2b Fraction — Serum/Plasma, Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction

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

Measures HDL cholesterol in the HDL-2b fraction using serum or plasma and electrophoretic separation as part of a specialized lipid assessment.

Quick summary

["This test measures one subfraction of HDL cholesterol and is interpreted alongside your full lipid profile and cardiovascular risk factors."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54468-4
Short code
HDLc 2b MFr SerPl Elph
Synonyms
HDLc 2b 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?

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a component that helps transport cholesterol in the blood. This test separates HDL into subfractions and measures the amount of cholesterol assigned to the HDL-2b fraction.

Why might I need this test?

This specialized test may be ordered as part of an evaluation of cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk. It provides additional information about HDL that is not available from a standard HDL cholesterol result alone.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory separates the lipoproteins in serum or plasma using electrophoresis. The amount of cholesterol in the HDL-2b fraction is then measured and reported.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Fasting is not usually required for routine HDL testing, but fasting may be requested when this test is ordered with a complete lipid panel.

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-2b Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

How is this different from a standard HDL cholesterol test?
A standard HDL test reports total HDL cholesterol. This test uses electrophoresis to measure cholesterol specifically within the HDL-2b subfraction.
Does a high HDL-2b result mean I am healthy?
Not necessarily. HDL-2b is only one part of a broader cardiovascular and lipid assessment and must be considered with other results and your medical history.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is generally unnecessary unless your healthcare professional specifically requests it, such as when the test is part of a fasting lipid panel.
  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