Skip to content

Triglyceride profile (serum lipid profile)

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

This test measures the amount of triglycerides, a type of fat found in your blood, using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method on a serum sample.

Quick summary

["Triglycerides help your body store and use energy, but high levels may increase heart disease risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3044-5
Short code
Trigl+HDL Ester SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Trigl+HDL Ester SerPl-mCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
40
Ref high
60
Fasting
true
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test to assess your overall lipid (fat) profile, which helps evaluate heart health risks. It’s often part of routine check-ups or when symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or a family history of high cholesterol are present.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for 12 hours before the test. Wear comfortable clothing for a blood draw.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a lab. The serum portion is analyzed using HPLC to separate and measure triglyceride levels precisely.

What the Results Mean

High triglyceride levels may indicate conditions like diabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome. Low levels are less commonly significant unless related to medications.

Reference range

Adult males: >40 mg/dL; Females: >50 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Triglycerides (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

Your doctor may discuss results with you to determine if lifestyle changes (like diet or exercise) or medications are needed to manage your lipid levels.
High triglyceride levels can increase the risk of heart disease or stroke by clogging arteries. Low levels are usually not clinically significant unless tied to other health factors.
What causes high triglyceride levels?
Several factors may raise triglyceride levels, including poor diet (high in sugar or unhealthy fats), obesity, physical inactivity, diabetes, kidney disease, or certain medications.
How can I lower my triglyceride levels?
Lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet (low in added sugars and saturated fats), exercising regularly, losing weight if overweight, and avoiding alcohol can help. Your doctor may also recommend medications if needed.
  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