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Triglycerides in Serum/Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of a type of fat called triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a major component of fats and are important for energy storage and cell function.

Quick summary

["Triglycerides help your body 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
28554-4
Short code
Trigl SerPl Ql
Synonyms
Trigl SerPl Ql
Category
glucose
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may check triglycerides to assess your risk of heart disease, diabetes, or other health conditions. It’s often done as part of a lipid panel (which also includes cholesterol levels) or if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or high blood pressure.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink except water) for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a fasting lipid panel. If you’re not fasting, your results may be less accurate for comparison.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab, where it’s analyzed to measure triglycerides using an automated method that detects their presence in your serum or plasma.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). While reference ranges vary by lab, high levels (above typical thresholds) may signal potential health concerns that need further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Triglycerides are a key indicator of metabolic health. High levels can contribute to cardiovascular disease, pancreatitis, or metabolic syndrome. Your provider may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or follow-up tests if results are elevated.

Short name

Triglycerides

Frequently asked questions

What causes high triglyceride levels?
High triglycerides can result from genetics, poor diet (high in sugar or refined carbs), obesity, physical inactivity, alcohol use, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors like smoking or diabetes also play a role.
What should I do if my triglycerides are high?
If your results are elevated, your provider may suggest dietary changes (e.g., reducing saturated fats and sugars), increased exercise, or weight management. They may also prescribe medications like fibrates or statins if needed.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Routine lipid panels are often recommended every 4–6 years for adults without known risk factors, or more often if you have risk factors like high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease.
  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