High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Quantitative
Measures the amount of HDL cholesterol in blood. HDL helps transport cholesterol away from artery walls to the liver.
["HDL cholesterol is one part of a cholesterol panel and is generally interpreted along with LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and other risk factors."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 62253-0
- Short code
- HDL SerPl Qn
- Synonyms
- HDL SerPl Qn
- 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 blood test measures the concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in serum or plasma. HDL is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol through the blood and helps deliver it to the liver for processing.
Why might I need this test?
HDL cholesterol is commonly included in a lipid panel to help assess cardiovascular risk. It may be ordered during routine screening, for follow-up of cholesterol treatment, or when another type of cholesterol is unexpectedly high.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the amount of HDL cholesterol. It is usually reported with the other results from a lipid panel.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is often unnecessary for routine HDL testing, but follow the instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. If the test is part of a complete lipid panel, fasting may be requested in some circumstances.
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 higher HDL cholesterol level is generally considered favorable for cardiovascular health, while a lower level may increase cardiovascular risk. Results should be interpreted with LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, overall lipid levels, and personal risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and family history. A single HDL result does not diagnose heart disease or determine treatment by itself.
Short name
HDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Does a high HDL cholesterol level guarantee protection from heart disease?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Can medications or lifestyle changes affect the 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