High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Fluid — Substance Concentration
Measures HDL cholesterol in a body-fluid sample to help assess how cholesterol is transported and how it may relate to cardiovascular risk.
["HDL cholesterol helps carry cholesterol away from arteries, and the result is interpreted along with the other parts of your lipid profile."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50840-8
- Short code
- HDLc Fld-sCnc
- Synonyms
- HDLc Fld-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, or HDL, in a body-fluid sample. HDL is often called “good cholesterol” because it helps transport cholesterol away from artery walls.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be used to evaluate cholesterol transport and cardiovascular risk. It is usually interpreted with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your overall health history.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory analyzes the submitted fluid using methods that separate and measure HDL cholesterol. The exact specimen type and test method depend on the order and should be confirmed with the laboratory.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided for the specific fluid specimen. If the test is being used to assess your lipid profile, fasting may sometimes be requested, and avoiding alcohol and unusually large meals beforehand may be helpful.
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 can occur with inherited or acquired conditions that affect cholesterol metabolism and may be associated with greater cardiovascular risk. A higher result is not always protective because very high HDL levels can sometimes reflect an underlying condition. Results should be interpreted with the rest of the lipid profile, medications, and your medical history.
Short name
HDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Does a higher HDL cholesterol result always mean better health?
Is HDL cholesterol the same as total cholesterol?
Can this test be performed on any body fluid?
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