Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Qualitative
A blood test that categorically evaluates LDL, commonly called “bad” cholesterol, to help assess cardiovascular risk.
["LDL cholesterol helps assess the buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries and your risk of heart disease or stroke."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48635-7
- Short code
- LDLc A SerPl Ql
- Synonyms
- LDLc A SerPl Ql
- 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 or categorically reports low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in a blood sample. LDL is often called “bad” because high levels can contribute to fatty plaque buildup in arteries.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test to evaluate your risk of heart disease and stroke, monitor cholesterol treatment, or investigate an abnormal cholesterol result. It is often interpreted with total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and your medical history.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory using a validated cholesterol assay. A qualitative result provides a category rather than an exact LDL concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is often unnecessary, but follow any instructions from your clinician, especially if you have recently changed your diet, exercise routine, or cholesterol medication. Drinking water is usually acceptable unless you receive 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.
An elevated LDL result may indicate increased risk of plaque-related cardiovascular disease, particularly when other risk factors are present. Lower LDL levels generally reflect a lower risk or the effect of lifestyle changes or treatment. Your clinician will interpret the result using your overall cholesterol profile, medical history, and risk factors.
Short name
LDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Why is LDL cholesterol called bad cholesterol?
Does this test require fasting?
What can change my LDL cholesterol?
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