LDL Cholesterol, Direct Assay — Mass Concentration
A blood test that directly measures low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, a substance that can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries.
["This test measures LDL (“bad”) cholesterol directly to help assess cardiovascular risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96597-0
- Short code
- LDLc DBS Direct Assay-mCnc
- Synonyms
- LDLc DBS Direct Assay-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
- Method
- direct-assay
- 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 directly measures the amount of LDL cholesterol in a blood sample. LDL is often called “bad” cholesterol because high levels can contribute to fatty plaque buildup in arteries.
Why might I need this test?
It may be used to assess cardiovascular risk, guide cholesterol-lowering treatment, or monitor how well therapy is working. It can also help clarify cholesterol results when standard calculated values are not appropriate.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, usually by a venous blood draw, and analyzed in the laboratory. A direct assay measures LDL cholesterol rather than calculating it from other cholesterol measurements.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician’s instructions about fasting, as some laboratories recommend fasting for a complete lipid profile. If you are unsure, ask whether you should avoid food and drinks other than water for 9 to 12 hours beforehand.
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 result generally indicates greater potential for cholesterol to build up in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. A lower result generally indicates less LDL cholesterol, but interpretation also depends on overall cardiovascular risk, medical history, medications, and other cholesterol measurements.
Short name
LDL cholesterol (direct)
Frequently asked questions
What does LDL stand for?
How is a direct LDL test different from a calculated LDL result?
Does a low LDL result always mean I am healthy?
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