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High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Substance Concentration

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

A blood test that uses electrophoresis to measure HDL in serum or plasma as part of cholesterol and cardiovascular risk assessment.

Quick summary

["This test measures HDL, a type of cholesterol-carrying protein associated with cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14813-0
Short code
HDL SerPl Elph-sCnc
Synonyms
HDL SerPl Elph-sCnc
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
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?

This test measures high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in a blood sample. HDL carries cholesterol away from body tissues back to the liver and is commonly evaluated as part of a lipid profile.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to help assess your cardiovascular risk, particularly when other cholesterol measurements are unclear or when tracking cholesterol-lowering treatment.

How is the test performed?

A serum or plasma sample is separated by electrophoresis to identify the HDL component. The amount of HDL-associated material is then measured and reported as a concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting. Fasting may be requested when this test is ordered with other lipid tests, but no special preparation is otherwise generally required.

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.

HDL results are interpreted with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your overall cardiovascular risk. A lower HDL level may be associated with increased cardiovascular risk, while a higher level is generally viewed as potentially protective, but many factors influence the result and no single value establishes risk by itself.

Short name

HDL Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Is HDL the same as "good cholesterol"?
Often, yes. HDL is commonly called "good cholesterol" because it helps transport cholesterol away from artery walls, although HDL level is only one part of cardiovascular risk assessment.
Does this test require a blood draw?
Yes. The test uses a blood sample, which the laboratory processes to obtain serum or plasma for measurement.
Can I interpret my HDL result without other cholesterol values?
No. HDL should be reviewed together with LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, medical history, and other risk factors.
  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