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Cholesterol Tests, Excluding LDL Cholesterol

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

These blood tests measure cholesterol other than LDL, such as total and HDL cholesterol. The report may also include calculated non-HDL cholesterol.

Quick summary

["This test evaluates blood cholesterol apart from LDL and is used to help assess cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75867-2
Short code
HEDIS 2015-18 Chol Tests not LDL
Synonyms
HEDIS 2015-18 Chol Tests not LDL
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 test measures cholesterol in the blood without including a separate LDL cholesterol result. Depending on the report, it may include total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, or calculated non-HDL cholesterol.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may use these results to evaluate your overall cholesterol profile and help estimate your risk of heart disease and stroke. They may also be used to monitor treatment intended to improve cholesterol levels.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn, usually from a vein in the arm, and the laboratory measures the cholesterol components in the sample. Some results, such as non-HDL cholesterol, may be calculated from other measured values.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any fasting instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. If you are told to fast, avoid food and drinks other than water for the specified period, and tell the healthcare team if you have diabetes, are pregnant, or have recently eaten.

Reference range

Optimal: <100 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

Non-LDL cholesterol tests

Frequently asked questions

Does this test include LDL cholesterol?
No. LDL cholesterol is reported separately under the instructions for this slug. Review the laboratory report if you are unsure which cholesterol values were included.
Why is HDL cholesterol important?
HDL cholesterol carries cholesterol away from arteries to the liver. Higher levels are generally considered protective, while lower levels can increase cardiovascular risk.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting may be requested in some cases, but it is not always required. Follow the specific instructions from your clinician or laboratory.
  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