Insulin and Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Analyte Concentration
Measures insulin and a cholesterol-related analyte in serum or plasma to help evaluate metabolism and cardiovascular risk.
["This blood test can provide information about insulin function and cholesterol status."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33819-4
- Short code
- Insulin sp9 p chal SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin sp9 p chal SerPl-aCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2.6
- Ref high
- 24.9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83525
- SNOMED
- 413618004
- 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 insulin and a cholesterol-related substance in blood. Insulin reflects how the body handles glucose, while cholesterol measurements help assess cardiovascular risk. The exact cholesterol fraction and insulin measurement are determined by the laboratory order.
Why might I need this test?
These measurements may be ordered when evaluating blood sugar control, insulin resistance, metabolic health, or cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk. They may also be used to monitor diabetes, weight-management, or lipid-treatment plans.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional draws blood from a vein. The sample may be allowed to clot so that serum is separated, or it may be centrifuged to obtain plasma, depending on the laboratory method. The specimen is then analyzed for insulin and the specified cholesterol-related substance.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow any fasting or timing instructions provided with your lab order, especially when insulin or lipid results are being compared. Fast for the required period, drink only water if permitted, avoid strenuous exercise beforehand, and tell the healthcare team about medicines or supplements that may affect the results.
Reference range
Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated insulin can occur with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, or other conditions affecting glucose metabolism, but one result alone does not establish a diagnosis. Abnormal cholesterol results may reflect dyslipidemia and can contribute to cardiovascular risk assessment. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, medical history, other laboratory tests, and the specific type of cholesterol measured.
Short name
Insulin and cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Does this test require fasting?
What does an abnormal insulin result mean?
Why are cholesterol fractions important?
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