LDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Calculated, Substance Concentration
A calculated blood test that estimates the amount of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood, commonly used to help assess cardiovascular risk.
["This test estimates LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and helps evaluate your risk of heart disease and stroke."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39469-2
- Short code
- LDLc SerPl Calc-sCnc
- Synonyms
- LDLc SerPl Calc-sCnc
- 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
- calculated
- 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 is a type of cholesterol carried by particles that can build up in artery walls. This test usually calculates an LDL cholesterol value from other results in a lipid panel, such as total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Why might I need this test?
Clinicians use LDL cholesterol to help assess the risk of heart disease and stroke. It may be checked during routine health visits, when monitoring cholesterol treatment, or when another type of cholesterol is found to be high.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn and analyzed as part of a lipid panel. The reported LDL value is usually calculated from the other lipid measurements, although some laboratories may use a direct LDL measurement when appropriate.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician’s instructions about fasting. A lipid panel is often requested after a period without food, but fasting may not be required in every situation. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy meals shortly before testing if you have been told to do so.
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 calculated LDL cholesterol level may indicate an increased risk of plaque buildup in the arteries, particularly when other cardiovascular risk factors are present. A lower level generally reflects a more favorable cholesterol profile. Your clinician should interpret the result using your overall health, medical history, and other lipid values.
Short name
LDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Why is my LDL result called a calculated value?
Does LDL cholesterol need to be checked separately from a lipid panel?
Can diet, exercise, or medication change my LDL cholesterol?
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