High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Fluid — Mass Concentration
Measures the amount of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in a body-fluid sample to help assess cardiovascular risk.
["HDL cholesterol is one of the blood lipid measurements used to help evaluate cardiovascular risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54372-8
- Short code
- HDLc Fld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- HDLc Fld-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 test measures high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in a body-fluid sample. HDL is a blood component that carries cholesterol and helps move it back toward the liver.
Why might I need this test?
An HDL cholesterol measurement may be included in a lipid panel to help assess the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is often interpreted together with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your overall medical history.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory analyzes the specified fluid for the amount of cholesterol contained in HDL particles. The exact specimen and laboratory method depend on the test order.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided for the specific specimen. If a blood sample is required, you may be asked to fast for several hours, and water is usually permitted unless your clinician gives different instructions.
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 low HDL cholesterol result can be associated with increased cardiovascular risk, while a high result may be considered protective in some contexts. HDL levels must be interpreted with other cholesterol measurements and risk factors, because medications, weight changes, diabetes, smoking, and inherited conditions can affect the result.
Short name
HDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Does a high HDL cholesterol result always mean excellent health?
Is fasting required for an HDL cholesterol test?
Can medications or lifestyle habits change 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