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Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Calculated from Serum Lipid Profile

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

This test calculates your LDL cholesterol level using results from other lipid tests, including total cholesterol and triglycerides. LDL cholesterol is often called the 'bad' cholesterol because high levels may increase your risk of heart disease.

Quick summary

["LDL cholesterol helps assess your heart health risk by measuring a key type of fat in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14815-5
Short code
LDL SerPl Calc-sCnc
Synonyms
LDL SerPl Calc-sCnc
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
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate your risk for heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular conditions. It’s often part of a broader lipid panel, especially if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease.

How Is This Test Performed?

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to determine your total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Your LDL cholesterol is then calculated using a formula based on these results.

What Does the Result Mean?

While exact values vary by lab, high LDL cholesterol levels (above typical reference ranges) may signal increased plaque buildup in your arteries. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and other test results.

Common Causes of High LDL Cholesterol

High LDL cholesterol can result from genetics, poor diet (high in saturated fats), lack of physical activity, smoking, obesity, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism.

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 (Calculated)

Frequently asked questions

What triggers a repeat LDL cholesterol test?
You may need a repeat test if your results are abnormal, your risk factors change (e.g., new diagnosis of diabetes), or your treatment plan (like medication) requires monitoring.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will recommend timing based on your risk profile. Generally, healthy adults may get it every 4–6 years, while those with higher risk may need it more often (e.g., annually).
Can diet or exercise lower LDL cholesterol?
Yes! Adopting a heart-healthy diet (e.g., Mediterranean diet), increasing physical activity, and avoiding smoking can significantly improve LDL levels. Some people also use medications like statins to help.
  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