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High Cholesterol Test

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

A blood test that measures cholesterol and may include HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol to help assess cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate your cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58293-2
Short code
High cholest med
Synonyms
High cholest med
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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?

A high cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol in your blood. It may include total cholesterol and separate measurements of HDL and LDL cholesterol.

Why might I need this test?

Cholesterol testing may be used to assess the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is commonly part of routine health screening or may be ordered to monitor cholesterol-lowering treatment.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, usually with a needle into a tube, and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory reports your cholesterol measurements along with any available interpretation.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting may or may not be required, depending on the specific test and your clinician's instructions. If fasting is requested, you will usually be told to avoid food and drinks other than water for the stated period.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High cholesterol can increase the risk of plaque buildup in arteries, which may contribute to heart disease or stroke. High levels can be influenced by diet, genetics, diabetes, thyroid conditions, and certain medications. Your clinician should interpret the result with your overall health and risk factors in mind.

Short name

Cholesterol Test

Frequently asked questions

Does a high cholesterol test diagnose heart disease?
No. It estimates cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk but does not by itself diagnose heart disease.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Not always. Requirements vary by the specific cholesterol tests ordered, so follow the instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
How often should cholesterol be checked?
The interval depends on your age, health history, and cardiovascular risk. Your clinician can recommend a schedule appropriate for you.
  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