Serum/plasma lipid profile with specific fraction measurements (e.g., cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, VLDL, and phospholipids)
This test measures key components of your blood lipids, including cholesterol and fat types, to assess heart health and metabolic function.
["Helps identify risks for heart disease and high cholesterol by showing how different fats circulate in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15122-5
- Short code
- LDL MFr SerPl
- Synonyms
- LDL MFr SerPl
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 This Test Measures
Your blood sample will be analyzed for several lipid-related measurements, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and phospholipids. These components help evaluate how fats are distributed in your bloodstream.
Why It Matters for Your Health
High levels of certain fats (like LDL) or low HDL can increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular issues. This test helps doctors monitor and manage these risks, especially if you have a family history of high cholesterol or related conditions.
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have risk factors for heart disease (e.g., high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes), if you’re being evaluated for high cholesterol, or as part of routine check-ups, especially after age 20.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the test if measuring triglycerides. Wear comfortable clothing for a blood draw, and let your doctor know about any medications or recent illnesses.
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.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Lipid panel with detailed fractions
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my lipid test results are within a healthy range?
Can I lower my cholesterol naturally?
What if my test results are abnormal?
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