HDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Arbitrary Concentration
An electrophoresis-based test that analyzes HDL cholesterol in serum or plasma and may report HDL particle subfractions or an electrophoresis-specific concentration.
["This test characterizes HDL cholesterol and may provide additional information about the distribution of HDL particles in the blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12772-0
- Short code
- HDLc SerPl Elph-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HDLc SerPl Elph-aCnc
- 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
- 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?
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a group of cholesterol-carrying particles in the blood. This test uses electrophoresis to analyze HDL cholesterol in a serum or plasma sample. Depending on the laboratory, the report may show HDL subfractions or a method-specific concentration rather than the standard direct HDL cholesterol result.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered as part of a lipid evaluation or when a clinician wants more detailed information about HDL particle composition. It may also be used in specialized cardiovascular risk assessment, although routine risk assessment generally uses the standard HDL cholesterol result from a lipid panel.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the serum or plasma is analyzed by electrophoresis. The laboratory separates and measures the HDL cholesterol components, then reports the concentration or relative distribution according to its validated method.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the preparation instructions provided by the laboratory or ordering clinician. Some lipid tests are performed fasting, but this electrophoresis test may not always require fasting. Do not stop prescribed medications unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HDL Cholesterol Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as the HDL cholesterol result on a routine lipid panel?
Does the test measure all the cholesterol in my blood?
Why do laboratories report this test in different units?
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