Non-HDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration
A blood test that measures the cholesterol carried by all cholesterol-containing particles except high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
["Non-HDL cholesterol provides an estimate of atherogenic cholesterol burden and may help guide cardiovascular risk assessment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 70204-3
- Short code
- NonHDLc SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- NonHDLc SerPl-sCnc
- 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?
This test measures non-HDL cholesterol in blood. Non-HDL cholesterol includes cholesterol carried by LDL and other cholesterol-containing particles, but does not include HDL cholesterol. It is often calculated by subtracting HDL cholesterol from total cholesterol.
Why might I need this test?
Clinicians may use this test as part of evaluating cardiovascular risk, particularly in people with high triglycerides, diabetes, kidney disease, or a family history of early heart disease. It can also help monitor response to cholesterol-lowering treatment.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory. The result is usually calculated from the sample's total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol values.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting. Fasting may be requested when triglycerides are also being measured, because recent meals can affect triglyceride levels and the calculated non-HDL result. Staying hydrated and telling the laboratory team about medicines or supplements can help ensure accurate interpretation.
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 non-HDL cholesterol level may indicate an increased amount of cholesterol in atherogenic particles, which can contribute to plaque formation in arteries. When interpreted with the rest of a lipid panel and your medical history, it can help clinicians assess cardiovascular risk and determine whether treatment or follow-up is needed. A single result does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
Short name
Non-HDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
How is non-HDL cholesterol different from LDL cholesterol?
Does a high non-HDL cholesterol result mean I have heart disease?
Should I fast before 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