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LDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in blood to help assess cardiovascular risk and guide cholesterol management.

Quick summary

["LDL cholesterol helps determine your risk of fatty plaque buildup in the arteries, which can lead to heart attack or stroke."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96259-7
Short code
LDLc SerPl Mart-Hopk-mCnc
Synonyms
LDLc SerPl Mart-Hopk-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
calculated-martin-hopkins
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 LDL cholesterol, a type of cholesterol that carries cholesterol from the liver to the rest of the body. When levels are high, LDL can contribute to fatty plaque buildup in artery walls.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to assess cardiovascular risk, monitor cholesterol-lowering treatment, or evaluate cholesterol levels during a routine health check. It may be included in a complete lipid profile.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory. The laboratory may measure LDL directly or calculate it from other cholesterol measurements.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is often not required, but follow your clinician’s or laboratory’s instructions. If fasting is requested, avoid food and drinks other than water for the specified period, usually 8 to 12 hours.

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

Frequently asked questions

Is LDL cholesterol the same as total cholesterol?
No. LDL is one component of total cholesterol. Total cholesterol measures the combined amount of cholesterol carried in the blood, while this test focuses on LDL.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting may not be necessary for every LDL test, especially when it is part of a routine lipid panel. Follow the preparation instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
Can lifestyle changes lower my LDL cholesterol?
For some people, eating less saturated fat, losing excess weight, increasing physical activity, and not smoking can improve LDL cholesterol. Your clinician can recommend changes based on your overall cardiovascular risk.
  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