Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), Serum/Plasma (HEDIS 2014)
Measures LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in the blood to help assess cardiovascular risk and guide cholesterol-lowering treatment.
["Higher LDL cholesterol generally increases the risk of heart disease and stroke."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74249-4
- Short code
- HEDIS 2014 LDL-C
- Synonyms
- HEDIS 2014 LDL-C
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 100
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83721
- SNOMED
- 113079007
- 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 low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often called LDL-C or “bad” cholesterol. LDL carries cholesterol in the blood and can contribute to fatty buildup in artery walls.
Why might I need this test?
LDL cholesterol is usually checked as part of a lipid panel to evaluate cardiovascular risk. It may also be monitored to determine whether cholesterol-lowering medication or lifestyle changes are working.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow. LDL cholesterol may be measured directly or calculated using the results of other cholesterol measurements.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the laboratory. Some lipid panels require fasting, commonly for 9 to 12 hours, while water is generally allowed. Tell the care team if you are pregnant, recently ill, or taking cholesterol-lowering medication.
Reference range
Optimal: <100 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 high LDL cholesterol level can indicate increased risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke. Risk interpretation depends on the full lipid panel and personal factors such as age, smoking, blood pressure, diabetes, and family history. Low LDL levels are generally not concerning, although very low levels may warrant review in certain clinical situations or with certain medications.
Short name
LDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is a high LDL cholesterol result dangerous?
Do I need to fast before this test?
How can I lower LDL 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