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Total Cholesterol, Serum

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

This test measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, which includes both the cholesterol your body makes and the cholesterol you get from foods like eggs and fatty meats.

Quick summary

["Cholesterol levels help assess your heart health risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22731-4
Short code
Trigl Spec-sCnc
Synonyms
Trigl Spec-sCnc
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 Matters

Cholesterol is a type of fat that your body needs for healthy cells, but having too much can build up in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease or stroke. This test helps doctors monitor your cholesterol levels to guide lifestyle or treatment recommendations.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the test if your doctor recommends it. Bring any medications you’re currently taking. Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood is collected and sent to a lab. There, it’s analyzed to measure the total cholesterol content, which includes both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a single number (total cholesterol) but are often interpreted alongside other lipid tests (like LDL or HDL). Your doctor will discuss these results with you based on your overall health and risk factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High cholesterol levels are a common risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Regular monitoring helps prevent complications by allowing early interventions, such as dietary changes, exercise, or medication if needed. Low levels may indicate nutritional deficiencies or other underlying conditions that need evaluation.

Short name

Total Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

What causes high cholesterol?
High cholesterol can result from a diet high in saturated or trans fats, a family history of high cholesterol, obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.
How can I lower my cholesterol naturally?
Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can help lower cholesterol levels over time.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Sometimes yes—your doctor may ask you to fast for 12 hours before the test to get more accurate results. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
  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