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LDL Cholesterol to HDL Cholesterol Ratio, Serum/Plasma

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

A blood test that compares LDL (bad) cholesterol with HDL (good) cholesterol to help assess cardiovascular risk.

Quick summary

["A higher LDL-to-HDL ratio generally indicates a less favorable cholesterol balance and may increase cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44915-7
Short code
LDLc/HDLc SerPl-sRto
Synonyms
LDLc/HDLc SerPl-sRto
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?

The LDL-to-HDL cholesterol ratio compares the amount of LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol with the amount of HDL, or “good,” cholesterol in your blood. It is often calculated from the results of a standard cholesterol panel.

Why might I need this test?

This ratio may be used along with your total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels to help estimate your risk of heart disease and stroke. Your clinician will interpret it with your overall health history and other risk factors.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory measures your LDL and HDL cholesterol. The values are then used to calculate the LDL-to-HDL ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is not always required for a cholesterol test, but your clinician may request it. Follow the instructions provided, and tell the laboratory if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medicines or recently changed their dose.

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/HDL Cholesterol Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is a higher LDL-to-HDL ratio better?
Generally, a lower ratio is considered more favorable because it indicates a better balance between LDL and HDL cholesterol. However, the ratio is only one part of a complete cardiovascular risk assessment.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting may not be necessary unless your clinician specifically requests it. If fasting is required, follow the laboratory's instructions and return to the sample collection as soon as possible afterward.
Can cholesterol medicines change the result?
Yes. Cholesterol-lowering medicines can alter LDL and HDL levels and therefore affect the calculated ratio. Your clinician will consider medication use and dose changes when interpreting the result.
  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