Cholesterol and Lipoprotein Profile with Electrophoresis (Serum)
This test measures different types of cholesterol and fats (lipoproteins) in your blood using an electrophoresis method. It helps assess how your cholesterol is distributed among various lipoprotein particles.
["Understanding your lipid profile can help identify risks for heart disease and guide treatment plans."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12674-8
- Short code
- LH 15M pre chal SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- LH 15M pre chal SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.5
- Ref high
- 9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83002
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
Electrophoresis separates blood components based on size and charge, allowing for the identification of key lipoprotein fractions. This includes high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), among others. The test may also detect abnormal lipoprotein patterns, such as dysbetalipoproteinemia.
Why Might You Need This Test?
A lipid electrophoresis profile is often used when standard cholesterol tests (like LDL and HDL) are inconclusive or when evaluating rare lipid disorders. It can help diagnose conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia or other metabolic lipid disorders.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The serum (liquid part of blood after clotting) is then analyzed using electrophoresis to separate and identify lipoprotein fractions. This process may take several hours to complete in a lab.
What Are Common Uses?
This test is primarily used for diagnosing and monitoring conditions related to abnormal lipid metabolism. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for cardiovascular risk assessment in patients with unexplained lipid abnormalities.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test provides detailed information about lipoprotein composition, which can be crucial for diagnosing rare genetic disorders affecting cholesterol metabolism. It helps clinicians tailor treatment strategies for patients with complex lipid profiles, potentially improving long-term heart health outcomes.
Short name
Lipid Electrophoresis Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect this 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