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High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma

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

Measures the amount of cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in your blood and helps assess cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["HDL cholesterol is one part of your overall cholesterol and heart-risk assessment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2095-8
Short code
HDLc SerPl
Synonyms
HDLc 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 blood test measures high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. HDL is a lipoprotein that carries cholesterol from tissues back to the liver, so it is often called “good cholesterol.” The result is considered along with your other cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk factors.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to screen for high cholesterol, monitor lipid-lowering treatment, or assess your risk of heart attack and stroke. It may also be checked as part of a broader health or wellness evaluation.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein. The laboratory separates the blood cells and measures the cholesterol contained in the HDL portion of the remaining serum or plasma.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician’s instructions about fasting. A lipid panel is often measured after fasting for about 9 to 12 hours, and water is usually permitted. Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, taking lipid-lowering medicines, or have had an illness or major change in activity recently.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HDL cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Why is HDL called good cholesterol?
HDL helps transport cholesterol away from artery walls and back toward the liver. This can support cardiovascular health, but HDL level should not be used as the only measure of heart-disease risk.
Do I need to fast for an HDL cholesterol test?
Fasting may be required when HDL is measured as part of a complete lipid panel, often for about 9 to 12 hours. Your clinician or laboratory will tell you whether to fast.
How can I improve my HDL cholesterol?
Regular physical activity, a balanced eating pattern, weight management, and not smoking can support healthier cholesterol levels. Your clinician can recommend steps based on your complete cholesterol profile and medical 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