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Very-Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL) Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Mass Concentration

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

This blood test measures VLDL cholesterol, a triglyceride-rich lipoprotein fraction. It is usually interpreted alongside the other parts of a lipid profile.

Quick summary

["The result helps show how much cholesterol is carried in VLDL particles and is most useful when reviewed with the complete lipid profile."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49133-2
Short code
VLDLc SerPl Elph-mCnc
Synonyms
VLDLc SerPl Elph-mCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
100
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
electrophoresis
CPT
83721
SNOMED
113079007
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

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of cholesterol in very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles in serum or plasma. VLDL is made mainly in the liver and carries a large amount of triglycerides through the blood.

Why might I need this test?

VLDL cholesterol may be included as part of a lipid profile to help assess cardiovascular risk or monitor treatment for high cholesterol. Your clinician may also review it when triglycerides are elevated.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the serum or plasma is separated from the blood cells. The laboratory uses electrophoresis to measure the cholesterol content of the VLDL fraction.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required unless your clinician specifically requests fasting. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory, and tell them if you have recently changed medications or your diet.

Reference range

Optimal: <100 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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

VLDL Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is VLDL cholesterol the same as LDL cholesterol?
No. VLDL and LDL are different lipoprotein particles that carry different amounts of cholesterol and triglycerides. A lipid profile generally reports them separately.
Does a high VLDL cholesterol result mean I have heart disease?
It does not by itself diagnose heart disease. Your clinician will interpret the result with your other lipid values, medical history, and cardiovascular risk factors.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting may be requested for some lipid panels, but it is not always necessary for an individual VLDL measurement. Follow your clinician's or laboratory's specific preparation 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