Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol Test — HEDIS Measurement Year 2020
Measures LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in the blood. It may be reported directly or calculated from other cholesterol results to help assess cardiovascular risk.
["LDL cholesterol results help estimate how much cholesterol-rich particle buildup may be occurring in the arteries."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96071-6
- Short code
- HEDIS MY 2020 LDL-C Tests
- Synonyms
- HEDIS MY 2020 LDL-C Tests
- 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 low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, sometimes called “bad” cholesterol. LDL carries cholesterol in the blood and is associated with fatty plaque buildup in arteries.
Why might I need this test?
An LDL cholesterol test may be used to assess cardiovascular risk, guide cholesterol-lowering treatment, or monitor the response to diet, exercise, or medication. The HEDIS reference in the test identifier refers to a 2020 healthcare quality-measure context.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn and analyzed in a laboratory. LDL cholesterol may be measured directly or calculated using results for total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is often not required, but you may be asked to fast if the laboratory is also checking triglycerides or if your clinician requests it. Follow the instructions provided with the test order.
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 result may increase the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. A low result may reflect cholesterol-lowering treatment or other circumstances that should be interpreted by a clinician. LDL levels are best considered along with total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and personal cardiovascular risk factors.
Short name
LDL cholesterol test
Frequently asked questions
Is a higher LDL cholesterol result worse?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Does the test distinguish among different types of LDL particles?
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