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HDL3a Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction

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

Measures the amount of cholesterol in the HDL3a subgroup of HDL using electrophoresis to help evaluate blood cholesterol levels.

Quick summary

["This test measures a specific component of HDL cholesterol, which is generally associated with cardiovascular health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54469-2
Short code
HDLc 3a MFr SerPl Elph
Synonyms
HDLc 3a 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 cholesterol in HDL3a, a subfraction of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL helps transport cholesterol away from arteries and back to the liver.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered as part of an evaluation of cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk. Results are usually interpreted alongside total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your medical history.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is separated into serum or plasma, and electrophoresis is used to isolate the HDL3a fraction. The amount of cholesterol in that fraction is then measured.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required unless your clinician requests fasting. If this test is being ordered with other lipid tests, follow the fasting instructions provided for the complete 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.

HDL cholesterol levels are generally associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, but an HDL3a result is interpreted as part of the overall lipid profile. An unusual result may reflect changes in total HDL or in the distribution of cholesterol among HDL subfractions. It does not by itself diagnose heart, blood vessel, or metabolic disease.

Short name

HDL3a cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is HDL3a the same as regular HDL cholesterol?
No. HDL3a is a specific subfraction of HDL, while a standard HDL cholesterol test measures cholesterol across a broader group of HDL particles.
Does a higher HDL3a result always mean better health?
Not necessarily. HDL is generally viewed as protective, but interpreting HDL3a requires the complete lipid panel, other risk factors, and the laboratory's reference information.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is often requested for a complete lipid panel, but this test may not require it when ordered alone. Follow the preparation instructions given by your clinician or laboratory.
  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