Skip to content

Triglyceride, Serum (High-Sensitivity, Fast Turnaround)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of triglycerides, a type of fat found in your blood, using a special blood test with a quick result.

Quick summary

["Triglycerides are important for heart health and can be checked to help manage cholesterol and risk of cardiovascular disease."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30524-3
Short code
Trigl p 12h fast SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Trigl p 12h fast SerPl-sCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
true
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 healthcare provider may order this test to monitor your lipid profile, assess risk for heart disease, or evaluate how well treatments (like diet, medication, or lifestyle changes) are working. It’s often used alongside other cholesterol tests to get a full picture of your blood fat levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader lipid panel. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

What the Test Results Mean

Results help determine if your triglyceride levels are within a healthy range or if they’re too high, which could increase your risk of health problems like high blood pressure or fatty liver disease. Your provider will discuss these findings with you.

Common Causes of High or Low Triglycerides

High triglycerides can be caused by diet, obesity, diabetes, or certain medications. Low levels may occur with malnutrition, liver disease, or thyroid issues. Your provider will consider your overall health when interpreting results.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

High-Sensitivity Triglycerides

Frequently asked questions

How long will I have to wait for my results?
Results are typically available quickly (often within hours) due to the fast turnaround process, but timing may vary. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready to discuss them.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
If this test is standalone, you may eat and drink normally. However, if it’s part of a fasting lipid panel, follow your provider’s instructions about food and drink restrictions.
What should I do if my triglyceride levels are high?
If your results are elevated, your provider may recommend lifestyle changes (like diet and exercise), medications, or further testing to address the underlying cause. Never stop or change medications without consulting them first.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy