LDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Qualitative Electrophoresis
A qualitative test that uses electrophoresis to evaluate the LDL cholesterol component of a serum or plasma sample.
["This test helps identify the LDL-related lipoprotein pattern in your blood and is usually interpreted alongside a standard lipid panel."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48636-5
- Short code
- LDLc BII SerPl Ql Elph
- Synonyms
- LDLc BII SerPl Ql Elph
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 100
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- 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 laboratory test examines LDL cholesterol in serum or plasma using electrophoresis. Because it is qualitative, it is interpreted as a pattern or category rather than as a precise LDL cholesterol concentration.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered when a clinician wants to evaluate the distribution of cholesterol-bearing lipoproteins or investigate an unusual lipid-panel result. It is generally used as an adjunct to, rather than a replacement for, a quantitative lipid profile.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is separated into its liquid portion, and the laboratory applies the sample to an electrophoresis system. Lipoproteins separate into characteristic bands or patterns, which the laboratory evaluates and reports.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required for this test unless your healthcare professional gives different instructions. If it is being checked together with other cholesterol tests, follow any fasting instructions provided for the full lipid panel.
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 abnormal LDL or lipoprotein pattern may occur with high LDL cholesterol, inherited lipid disorders, diabetes, kidney disease, or certain medication effects. An elevated LDL level is associated with increased risk of atherosclerotic heart disease and stroke. Because electrophoresis is primarily qualitative, a standard quantitative lipid panel is often needed to measure LDL cholesterol and guide treatment decisions.
Short name
LDL Cholesterol by Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a standard LDL cholesterol test?
Does an abnormal result mean I have heart disease?
Should my LDL result be used to decide about treatment?
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