Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
Measures LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in blood to help assess cardiovascular risk and guide cholesterol-lowering treatment.
["This blood test helps estimate how much “bad” cholesterol is circulating and may influence heart-risk management."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49026-8
- Short code
- LDL6 SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- LDL6 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?
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often called LDL cholesterol or “bad” cholesterol, is a blood lipid that transports cholesterol to body tissues. This test measures the amount of LDL cholesterol in serum or plasma.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to assess your risk of heart disease and stroke, especially if you have high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of cardiovascular disease. Results can help guide diet, lifestyle changes, and cholesterol-lowering treatment.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in a laboratory. LDL cholesterol may be measured directly or calculated as part of a cholesterol panel, depending on the laboratory method.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting for about 9 to 12 hours may be recommended, and water is usually allowed. Avoid high-fat meals and alcohol before the test unless your clinician gives different instructions, and tell the team if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medicines.
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 higher LDL cholesterol level can indicate increased risk of fatty plaque buildup in the arteries, which may contribute to heart attack and stroke. Lower levels generally reflect a more favorable cardiovascular risk profile, although interpretation depends on your overall health, medical history, and other risk factors. Your clinician should interpret the result alongside HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and other findings.
Short name
LDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is LDL cholesterol the same as total cholesterol?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Can medicines or other conditions affect the 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