Serum/plasma cholesterol (total) with high-sensitivity measurement
This test measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, which includes both the cholesterol carried by low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that plays a role in cell function and is important for hormone production.
["Cholesterol levels help assess your risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40097-8
- Short code
- PT 12h p chal PPP
- Synonyms
- PT 12h p chal PPP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- coag-tissue-factor-induced
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- 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
Why This Test Matters
Cholesterol is a critical component of your blood that helps maintain healthy cell membranes and produces hormones. However, high cholesterol levels can increase the risk of plaque buildup in your arteries, leading to heart disease or stroke. This test helps healthcare providers monitor your cardiovascular health and guide treatment plans.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re fasting, your provider will confirm whether you should eat or drink before the test. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test if instructed.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm and sent to a lab. The lab uses a specialized method to measure the total cholesterol in your serum or plasma. This includes all types of cholesterol, including those bound to proteins in your blood.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a numerical value (e.g., mg/dL or mmol/L), but your healthcare provider will interpret them in the context of your overall health. They may compare your results to your baseline or to standard reference ranges to assess your risk.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High total cholesterol levels are a major risk factor for atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Low levels may indicate potential deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins (like vitamin D) or liver issues. Regular monitoring helps manage cardiovascular health and prevent complications.
Short name
Total Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What can affect my cholesterol levels?
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