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LDL Cholesterol Goal, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A calculated LDL cholesterol target based on cardiovascular risk. It helps guide cholesterol-management goals and is not a separate measurement of LDL.

Quick summary

["This result estimates the LDL cholesterol level considered appropriate for your cardiovascular risk profile."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86911-5
Short code
LDLc goal mCnc SerPl
Synonyms
LDLc goal mCnc SerPl
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?

LDL cholesterol goal is a calculated target for your LDL cholesterol level. It may be derived from your lipid-panel results and cardiovascular risk factors rather than measured by a separate blood test.

Why might I need this test?

Clinicians use an LDL goal to help assess cardiovascular risk and guide decisions about diet, exercise, medicines, and follow-up testing. The appropriate goal can differ according to heart-disease history and other risk factors.

How is the test performed?

The goal is generally calculated electronically from available cholesterol results and clinical risk information. It normally requires no additional blood draw beyond any lipid panel used to provide the source results.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is needed for the goal calculation itself. If your LDL is being measured as part of a lipid panel, follow the laboratory's instructions about fasting and medication timing.

Reference range

Optimal: <100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

LDL Cholesterol Goal

Frequently asked questions

Is the LDL goal the same as my measured LDL result?
No. The goal is a calculated target, while the LDL result estimates the cholesterol level currently present in your blood.
Why is my LDL goal different from a goal shown at another laboratory?
Laboratories may use different clinical criteria or risk assumptions. Your clinician can explain which standard was used and what target is appropriate for you.
Can diet or medicines change my LDL goal?
Medicines and lifestyle changes can lower your measured LDL, but they generally do not change the target itself unless your cardiovascular risk or medical circumstances change.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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