Non-HDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma
Measures cholesterol carried by all lipoprotein particles except high-density lipoprotein (HDL), providing information about overall cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk.
["Higher non-HDL cholesterol can indicate increased cardiovascular risk, especially when combined with other risk factors."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47228-2
- Short code
- NonHDLc SerPl
- Synonyms
- NonHDLc SerPl
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 40
- Ref high
- 60
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83700
- SNOMED
- 113079008
- 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?
Non-HDL cholesterol measures the amount of cholesterol in all cholesterol-carrying particles except high-density lipoprotein (HDL). It includes cholesterol in low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and other lipoproteins.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be used to assess cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk, particularly if your LDL cholesterol or total cholesterol is elevated. It can also help guide lifestyle changes or treatment decisions.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in a laboratory. Non-HDL cholesterol is usually calculated by subtracting the HDL cholesterol value from the total cholesterol value in the same sample.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting. Fasting for 9 to 12 hours may be requested when this test is part of a lipid panel, but the requirement can vary. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol shortly before testing if you have been told to fast.
Reference range
Adult males: >40 mg/dL; Females: >50 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.
A higher-than-expected non-HDL cholesterol level may indicate increased cardiovascular risk, particularly in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking history, or a family history of early heart disease. A lower level generally reflects a more favorable cholesterol profile. Your clinician should interpret the result alongside your other cholesterol values and overall risk factors.
Short name
Non-HDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
How is non-HDL cholesterol different from LDL cholesterol?
Is non-HDL cholesterol calculated or measured directly?
Do I need to fast for 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