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Small High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Subfraction, Serum — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of small HDL particles in serum, which may be used as part of an advanced assessment of cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["This test measures small HDL particles in blood and is usually interpreted alongside a full lipid profile and other cardiovascular risk factors."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92711-1
Short code
HDL small Ser-sCnc
Synonyms
HDL small Ser-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
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 the concentration of small high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles in serum. HDL is a group of cholesterol-carrying proteins, and the particles vary in size.

Why might I need this test?

Small HDL measurements may be ordered as part of an advanced lipid evaluation, particularly when a standard cholesterol panel does not fully explain a person's cardiovascular risk assessment. The result is generally considered together with HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and other risk factors.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and separated to obtain serum. The laboratory then measures the amount of small HDL particles using an appropriate analytical method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's instructions regarding fasting and medication use. If this test is part of a lipid panel, fasting may be requested, and results can be affected by recent food intake, illness, weight changes, and certain medicines.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Small HDL subfraction

Frequently asked questions

Is small HDL the same as HDL cholesterol?
No. HDL cholesterol measures the amount of cholesterol carried by all HDL particles, while this test focuses specifically on the small HDL subfraction. Both can provide complementary information about lipid metabolism.
Does a higher small HDL result always mean lower cardiovascular risk?
No. Small HDL is one part of a broader risk assessment and should not be used alone to determine risk or treatment. Your clinician will interpret it with other cholesterol measurements, medical history, and risk factors.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Preparation depends on the laboratory and the reason for testing. If it is included with a standard lipid profile, fasting may be requested; follow the instructions provided before your blood draw.
  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