Skip to content

Triglycerides (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of triglycerides, a type of fat found in your blood, which can help assess your heart health and risk for conditions like high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease.

Quick summary

["Triglycerides are a key indicator of your fat levels and cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59036-4
Short code
Trigl DiafP-mCnc
Synonyms
Trigl DiafP-mCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
10
Fasting
true
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82105
SNOMED
394971007
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

Triglycerides are a type of fat that circulates in your blood. High levels can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, or other health problems. Your doctor may order this test to monitor your overall health, especially if you have a family history of high cholesterol, diabetes, or obesity.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor recommends it. If fasting is required, follow their instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab, where it is analyzed to measure the triglycerides present. The result is reported as a mass concentration in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

What the Results Mean

Your triglyceride levels help your doctor determine if your fat levels are within a healthy range or if lifestyle or medical interventions may be needed. While specific reference ranges vary by lab, high levels may prompt discussions about diet, exercise, or other treatments.

Reference range

Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Triglycerides

Frequently asked questions

What causes high triglyceride levels?
High triglyceride levels can result from diet (e.g., high intake of sugars or fats), obesity, physical inactivity, certain medications (like steroids or birth control), or underlying conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.
How can I lower my triglyceride levels?
Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet (low in added sugars and refined carbs), regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol can help lower triglycerides. Your doctor may also recommend medications if lifestyle changes aren’t sufficient.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Some labs may require fasting for 8–12 hours before testing to get the most accurate results. Always check with your healthcare provider or lab instructions to confirm their specific guidelines.
  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