High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), Serum/Plasma — Calculated Substance Concentration
This blood test measures HDL cholesterol and is usually interpreted with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides to help assess cardiovascular risk.
["HDL cholesterol helps estimate how lipids may affect your risk of heart and blood vessel disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56133-2
- Short code
- HDLc 2b SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- HDLc 2b 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 the amount of cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in a blood sample. HDL is often called “good cholesterol” because it helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back toward the liver.
Why might I need this test?
HDL cholesterol is commonly checked as part of a lipid panel, which evaluates the amounts of several types of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. Your clinician may use these results, along with your overall health history, to assess your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory. The HDL result may be calculated from the results of other cholesterol measurements or measured directly, depending on the laboratory method.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is not always required for HDL cholesterol, although some clinicians request a fasting lipid panel. Follow the instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory, and tell them if you have recently changed your diet, exercised intensely, or taken a medication that could affect the result.
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 higher HDL level generally reflects a more favorable lipid pattern and may be associated with a lower cardiovascular risk. A lower HDL level can indicate increased cardiovascular risk, particularly when total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, or other risk factors are also abnormal. An HDL result should not be interpreted alone because genetics, body weight, diabetes, smoking, medications, and other conditions can affect it.
Short name
HDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is a higher HDL cholesterol result always better?
Do I need to fast for this test?
Can medications or lifestyle 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