HDL Cholesterol, Blood — Mass Concentration
Measures the amount of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in a blood sample to help assess cardiovascular risk.
["HDL cholesterol is often called “good cholesterol,” but the result must be interpreted with your other cholesterol values and health history."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19250-0
- Short code
- HDL Plr-mCnc
- Synonyms
- HDL Plr-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- 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
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test measures HDL cholesterol in blood. HDL is a protein that carries cholesterol away from artery walls to the liver, where it can be removed from the body.
Why might I need this test?
An HDL cholesterol test is often included in a lipid panel to help assess the risk of heart disease and stroke. Your clinician may also use it to monitor cholesterol-lowering treatment or changes in metabolic health.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of your elbow. The sample is analyzed in a laboratory to determine the amount of HDL cholesterol present.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is commonly requested for a complete lipid panel, although it may not always be required for an HDL test alone. Follow your clinician’s instructions and tell the laboratory if you have recently eaten, lost weight, or are taking cholesterol-lowering medicines.
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.
Higher HDL cholesterol is generally associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, while lower levels may indicate increased risk. HDL does not protect everyone equally, and genetic conditions can cause unusually high or low results. Interpret the value alongside LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and your medical history.
Short name
HDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is HDL cholesterol always good for me?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Can medicines or lifestyle changes affect HDL cholesterol?
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