Large High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration
Measures the amount of cholesterol carried in the large high-density lipoprotein (HDL) fraction of blood.
["This test shows how much cholesterol is present in the large HDL particle group, which is part of the body's cholesterol transport system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43729-3
- Short code
- HLD.large SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- HLD.large SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- liver
- 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?
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a family of particles that carry cholesterol through the bloodstream. This test measures cholesterol in the large HDL fraction, sometimes called HDL2, using a blood sample.
Why might I need this test?
This measurement may be used to evaluate the distribution of HDL particles and help assess cardiovascular risk. It is often interpreted with a complete lipid profile and other cardiovascular risk factors.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory separates or measures the large HDL fraction to determine its cholesterol concentration. The result is usually reported as a concentration, but units and reference intervals depend on the laboratory.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting. Some lipid tests are performed after an overnight fast, while others do not require fasting. Drinking water is generally acceptable unless your clinician has given different instructions.
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.
Different large-HDL cholesterol concentrations can occur with changes in lipid metabolism, weight, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, and medication use. A higher or lower value does not by itself diagnose heart disease, so it should be interpreted with the complete lipid profile and your overall cardiovascular risk.
Short name
Large HDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a standard HDL cholesterol test?
Does the test require fasting?
What does a high or low result mean?
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