Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) Concentration in Serum
This test measures the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood serum, a key type of fat that can build up in your arteries over time.
["LDL cholesterol is often called 'bad cholesterol' because high levels may increase your risk of heart disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92715-2
- Short code
- LDL very small-a Ser-sCnc
- Synonyms
- LDL very small-a Ser-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
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test to assess your risk of heart disease, monitor cholesterol levels after treatment, or check for conditions like high cholesterol or metabolic syndrome. It’s often part of a broader lipid panel that also includes HDL and total cholesterol.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a full lipid profile. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood after clotting) is then analyzed to measure LDL cholesterol concentration using a specialized laboratory method.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine whether your LDL cholesterol is within a healthy range or if lifestyle or medical interventions may be needed. While exact ranges vary by age, gender, and health status, high levels may prompt further evaluation.
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.
High LDL cholesterol is strongly linked to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease. Regular monitoring helps manage risk factors and guide treatment decisions, such as diet, exercise, or medication.
Short name
LDL Cholesterol Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What can affect my LDL cholesterol levels?
Do I need to do anything special after the test?
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