Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
Measures LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in blood, helping assess cardiovascular risk and guide cholesterol treatment.
["LDL cholesterol is one of the main blood markers used to estimate the risk of heart attack and stroke."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 91110-7
- Short code
- LDL6c SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- LDL6c SerPl-mCnc
- 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 the amount of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in your blood. LDL cholesterol is a type of cholesterol that can build up in artery walls and contribute to narrowing of the arteries.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be used to assess your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. It is commonly part of a lipid panel and may be repeated to monitor treatment for high cholesterol.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the serum or plasma portion is analyzed to determine the LDL cholesterol concentration. Depending on the laboratory, the result may be measured directly or calculated from other cholesterol values.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional. Some laboratories request fasting for 9 to 12 hours, while others do not, so confirm the preparation requirements before your appointment.
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 concentration may indicate an increased risk of plaque buildup and cardiovascular disease. Unusually low LDL cholesterol can have several causes, including genetic factors, dietary changes, medications, or certain medical conditions, so it should be interpreted alongside your overall health and medical history.
Short name
LDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is LDL cholesterol the same as “bad” cholesterol?
Does this test require fasting?
What can cause a high LDL cholesterol result?
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