LDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Calculated, Mass Concentration
A calculated measurement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, a blood lipid used to help assess cardiovascular risk.
["This test estimates the amount of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in your blood and helps assess heart and blood-vessel risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50193-2
- Short code
- LDLc ND SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- LDLc ND SerPl-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
- 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 blood test measures or calculates the concentration of LDL cholesterol in serum or plasma. LDL cholesterol is a type of fat that circulates in the blood and can contribute to fatty deposits in arteries.
Why might I need this test?
Clinicians use this test as part of a lipid panel to evaluate your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Results may help guide diet, lifestyle changes, or cholesterol-lowering treatment.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, usually through a vein in the arm. LDL cholesterol is often calculated using the results of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, although some laboratories use a direct measurement method.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting for about 9 to 12 hours may be recommended, especially when triglycerides are being measured as part of the calculation. Follow your clinician’s or laboratory’s instructions, and tell them if you have recently eaten or changed your usual diet.
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 level generally indicates increased risk of fatty plaque buildup in the arteries, particularly when other cardiovascular risk factors are also present. A lower level generally reflects a lower likelihood of this risk. Because this result may be calculated, the laboratory report and your clinician’s interpretation are important.
Short name
LDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Why is LDL cholesterol called “bad” cholesterol?
Does this test require fasting?
Is a calculated LDL result the same as a direct LDL measurement?
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