HDL Cholesterol, Fluid — Qualitative
A qualitative test that evaluates whether HDL cholesterol is present in a fluid specimen. It does not provide the usual numeric HDL cholesterol concentration.
["This test checks for the presence of HDL cholesterol in a fluid sample rather than measuring its exact amount."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26822-7
- Short code
- HDL Fld Ql
- Synonyms
- HDL Fld Ql
- Category
- liver
- 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 evaluates the presence of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in a fluid specimen. HDL is a type of cholesterol-carrying particle that helps transport cholesterol away from artery walls.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test when assessing cholesterol-related risk or when a specific fluid sample requires evaluation for HDL. The reason for testing depends on the specimen and clinical situation.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory analyzes the submitted fluid using a validated qualitative method. The report indicates whether the test is detected or not detected rather than giving a numeric concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the ordering clinician or laboratory. Preparation may vary with the type of fluid collected, and fasting may or may not be required.
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 detected result means HDL cholesterol was identified in the tested fluid, while a not-detected result means it was not identified by the laboratory method. HDL levels are ordinarily interpreted as a concentration, so a qualitative result should not be used to judge whether cholesterol levels are high or low. Your healthcare professional can explain how this result fits with other cholesterol tests and your overall health.
Short name
HDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Does this test measure my HDL cholesterol level?
Why does the result list a fluid specimen?
Can I use this result to assess my cardiovascular risk?
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