Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Mass Concentration
This blood test measures LDL (“bad”) cholesterol using serum or plasma and an electrophoresis method, helping assess cardiovascular risk.
["LDL cholesterol levels help evaluate the buildup of fatty plaque in arteries and guide heart-risk treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49132-4
- Short code
- LDLc SerPl Elph-mCnc
- Synonyms
- LDLc SerPl Elph-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
- electrophoresis
- 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 measures the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in a blood sample. LDL cholesterol is a type of fat that circulates in the blood and can contribute to fatty plaque buildup in arteries.
Why might I need this test?
LDL cholesterol is measured as part of assessing cardiovascular risk and may be monitored if you have high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, or a family history of early heart disease. Results can also help guide diet, lifestyle changes, or cholesterol-lowering treatment.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory separates the cholesterol-containing lipoproteins using electrophoresis. The LDL cholesterol fraction is then measured and reported as a mass concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
This test may not require fasting, but your clinician or laboratory may request it, especially when cholesterol and other lipid measurements are being evaluated together. Follow the instructions provided and tell your clinician about medications or recent health changes that could affect the result.
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.
An elevated LDL cholesterol result may indicate increased risk of atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty plaque narrows or stiffens arteries. High levels can be influenced by genetics, diet, weight, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and some medications. An unusually low result may occur with rapid weight loss, acute illness, or cholesterol-lowering treatment, so it should be interpreted in your overall clinical context.
Short name
LDL cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Why is LDL cholesterol called “bad” cholesterol?
Is fasting required for this test?
Can I lower LDL cholesterol without medication?
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