High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Qualitative
A qualitative laboratory test that examines the electrophoretic pattern of HDL cholesterol in serum or plasma to help identify abnormalities in HDL particles.
["This test evaluates the pattern of HDL cholesterol particles and may help investigate unusual lipid findings."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12771-2
- Short code
- HDLc SerPl Ql Elph
- Synonyms
- HDLc SerPl Ql Elph
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 40
- Ref high
- 60
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- 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) cholesterol is a form of cholesterol carried by HDL particles. This test uses electrophoresis to separate and assess HDL-related material in a serum or plasma sample, providing a qualitative pattern rather than simply reporting total HDL cholesterol.
Why might I need this test?
This specialized test may be ordered when a routine lipid panel or other HDL-related result is unusual. It can help evaluate abnormalities in the size, composition, or distribution of HDL particles.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory analyst applies the serum or plasma sample to an electrophoresis system. The separated components are evaluated to determine whether the HDL cholesterol pattern is normal or abnormal.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Fasting may be required for related lipid testing, but it is not always necessary for this test. Tell the laboratory if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medicines, because they can affect lipid results.
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.
An abnormal electrophoretic pattern may indicate altered HDL particles, which can occur with inherited lipid disorders, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, inflammation, or changes related to medication. The finding should be interpreted with the rest of your lipid panel and your medical history.
Short name
HDL Cholesterol Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a standard HDL cholesterol test?
Does a qualitative result provide a specific HDL number?
What could cause an abnormal result?
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