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Lipemic Index (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures how much fat (lipids) is present in your blood sample, which can affect lab results if your blood appears cloudy or milky.

Quick summary

["Fat in your blood can interfere with some lab tests—this test helps check if your sample was affected."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97200-0
Short code
Lipemic interf index CSF-aCnc
Synonyms
Lipemic interf index CSF-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

A high fat content in your blood (lipemia) can obscure the accuracy of other tests, such as cholesterol or glucose measurements. This index helps your healthcare provider determine if your blood sample was too lipemic to provide reliable results.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, especially if your blood appears cloudy. Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, or excessive exercise before drawing blood to reduce fat levels in your bloodstream.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is analyzed to assess how much fat is present. If fat levels are too high, the test result may be flagged as unreliable, and your provider may request a new sample after fasting or other adjustments.

When This Test Might Be Done

This test is often performed when your blood appears cloudy or milky, which can happen after eating fatty foods, excessive alcohol consumption, or certain medications. It’s also used to confirm if lab results are affected by lipemia before further testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Lipemic Index

Frequently asked questions

What Does a High Lipemic Index Mean?
A high lipemic index suggests your blood sample contains too much fat, which may interfere with other tests. Your healthcare provider will discuss whether to repeat the test after adjusting your diet or lifestyle.
How Does Lipemia Affect Other Tests?
High fat levels can obscure readings for tests like cholesterol, triglycerides, or glucose. If your lipemic index is elevated, your provider may need to retest after fasting or using a different sample.
Can I Prevent Lipemia Before a Test?
Yes! Avoid fatty foods, alcohol, or heavy meals for 24 hours before your blood draw. Staying hydrated and exercising lightly may also help reduce fat levels in your bloodstream.
  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