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Total Cholesterol, Lipid Profile

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

Total cholesterol measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood and is usually reported as part of a lipid profile.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess your blood cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105515-1
Short code
Total chole from lipid profile
Synonyms
Total chole from lipid profile
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
true
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?

Total cholesterol measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood. It is commonly included in a lipid profile along with HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate cholesterol-related cardiovascular risk, monitor changes over time, or help guide diet, lifestyle, or medication decisions.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The result is typically reported as part of a lipid profile and is interpreted alongside the other lipid measurements and your overall health history.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions. Fasting may be requested for some lipid profiles, but it is not required for every test; avoid prolonged fasting unless specifically directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A high total cholesterol result may indicate increased cardiovascular risk, particularly when accompanied by elevated LDL cholesterol or triglycerides. A low result can occur with certain health conditions, nutritional states, or medications. Your clinician should interpret the result using the rest of your lipid profile and your medical history.

Short name

Total Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is total cholesterol the same as LDL cholesterol?
No. Total cholesterol includes several types of cholesterol in the blood, including LDL and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is a specific component and is often considered separately when assessing cardiovascular risk.
Do I need to fast before this test?
It depends on your clinician's instructions and the laboratory's testing policy. Some lipid profiles are performed without fasting, while others may require an overnight fast.
What can affect my cholesterol result?
Diet, weight changes, physical activity, alcohol use, smoking, health conditions, and certain medications can affect cholesterol levels. These factors are considered when your result is interpreted.
  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