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High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of HDL cholesterol in blood. HDL helps transport cholesterol away from artery walls to the liver.

Quick summary

["HDL cholesterol is one part of a lipid profile used to help assess cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111273-9
Short code
HDLc Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
HDLc Msmt SerPl
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 concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in serum or plasma blood. HDL is a protein particle that carries cholesterol through the bloodstream and back to the liver.

Why might I need this test?

HDL cholesterol is usually measured as part of a lipid profile or cholesterol panel. Your clinician may use it with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your medical history to help estimate your risk of heart disease and stroke.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed by a laboratory to measure HDL cholesterol. The result is reported as a cholesterol concentration, and it may be measured directly or calculated from other lipid values.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is often not required for a routine HDL test, but follow your clinician's instructions, especially if the test is part of a complete lipid profile. Continue normal eating and medication routines unless your healthcare professional tells you otherwise.

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.

A higher HDL cholesterol level is generally associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, although HDL alone does not determine overall risk. A low result may occur with inherited lipid conditions, smoking, obesity, diabetes, or low physical activity and should be interpreted with the rest of the lipid profile.

Short name

HDL cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is HDL cholesterol the same as “good cholesterol”?
Often called “good cholesterol,” HDL helps move cholesterol away from artery walls. This does not mean that raising HDL with medication necessarily prevents heart disease.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually unnecessary for HDL cholesterol by itself. If your clinician ordered a complete lipid profile, follow the fasting instructions provided by the laboratory or healthcare professional.
What can change my HDL cholesterol result?
Weight changes, diet, physical activity, smoking, diabetes, medications, and inherited conditions can affect HDL cholesterol. Your clinician should interpret the result alongside your other cholesterol measurements and health history.
  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