Lecithin-Cholesterol Acyltransferase, Serum/Plasma — Catalytic Concentration
Measures LCAT enzyme activity in blood, which helps assess cholesterol transport and may support evaluation of suspected LCAT deficiency.
["This blood test measures LCAT enzyme activity, which is important for the transport and processing of cholesterol."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2555-1
- Short code
- LCAT SerPl-cCnc
- Synonyms
- LCAT SerPl-cCnc
- 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?
Lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) is an enzyme that helps transport cholesterol by changing free cholesterol into a form that can be carried in high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This test measures LCAT activity in serum or plasma.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be used when low HDL cholesterol, unusual cholesterol findings, or symptoms suggest an inherited lipid metabolism disorder. It can also help evaluate possible LCAT deficiency, a rare condition that may affect cholesterol levels, kidney function, blood cells, or the corneas.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn and separated into serum or plasma. A laboratory then measures the activity of the LCAT enzyme using a validated laboratory method. It may be ordered along with a cholesterol and lipid profile.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory. Some laboratories request fasting, especially when LCAT testing is performed with other lipid tests, and you may need to avoid alcohol for the period specified.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Reduced LCAT activity can occur with inherited LCAT deficiency and may also be associated with liver or kidney disease and some medications. Results should be interpreted with the lipid profile, other laboratory findings, medical history, and examination. An isolated result does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
Short name
LCAT Activity
Frequently asked questions
What does LCAT do?
What does a low LCAT activity result mean?
Is this the same as an HDL cholesterol test?
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