Total Cholesterol
This test measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, which includes both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Cholesterol is a fatty substance your body needs for cell function but can become harmful if levels are too high.
["Your cholesterol levels help assess heart health and risk of cardiovascular disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97164-8
- Short code
- T3 24h Ur-mRate
- Synonyms
- T3 24h Ur-mRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 80
- Ref high
- 200
- Critical range
- 20 N/A – 400 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84436
- SNOMED
- 302346007
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a total cholesterol test to check for risk factors of heart disease, diabetes, or other health conditions. It’s often part of routine check-ups or when symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, or high blood pressure are present. Regular monitoring helps manage long-term health.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the blood draw. Wear a loose shirt for easy access. The test is quick and painless, with a small needle inserted into your arm.
What the Results Mean
While exact ranges vary by lab, higher-than-normal cholesterol levels may indicate a need for lifestyle changes or medication. Lower levels might raise concerns if other health factors are present. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
High cholesterol can result from diet, genetics, or underlying conditions like obesity or diabetes. Low levels may occur due to medications, liver disease, or malnutrition. Your provider will consider your full medical picture.
Reference range
Adult: 80-200 ng/dLN/A
Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Cholesterol Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What if my cholesterol is borderline high?
Can diet alone lower cholesterol?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy