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Nonesterified Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

Measures free, or nonesterified, cholesterol in blood. It is different from total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol.

Quick summary

["This blood test measures the free cholesterol portion of your blood cholesterol."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54373-6
Short code
NE Cholest SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
NE Cholest SerPl-sCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 is this test?

This test measures nonesterified cholesterol, also called free cholesterol, in serum or plasma. It is the portion of cholesterol not attached to another type of molecule and is not the same measurement as total cholesterol or HDL cholesterol.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered as part of an assessment of cholesterol metabolism or when a healthcare professional needs more information about blood lipids. It is sometimes considered alongside a complete lipid panel.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the amount of nonesterified cholesterol is measured in the laboratory. The results are usually reported as a concentration, meaning the amount of cholesterol per unit volume of blood.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your healthcare professional's instructions about fasting and medication use. If you are also having a lipid panel, fasting may be requested; otherwise, special preparation is generally not required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Nonesterified cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is nonesterified cholesterol the same as HDL cholesterol?
No. HDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol contained within HDL particles, while nonesterified cholesterol measures cholesterol that is not attached to another molecule. They are separate parts of a cholesterol assessment.
Do I need to fast for this test?
It depends on your healthcare professional's instructions and whether other tests are being performed at the same time. Fasting may be recommended for a complete lipid panel, but it is not always required for this measurement by itself.
Can medications affect the result?
Yes. Cholesterol-lowering medicines and certain other drugs can affect blood cholesterol levels. Do not stop or change any medication without discussing it with your healthcare professional.
  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