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Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

VLDL cholesterol is a blood lipid that carries cholesterol from the liver to other tissues. It is often measured as part of a lipid profile.

Quick summary

["This test measures VLDL cholesterol in your blood and may help assess your cardiovascular risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2091-7
Short code
VLDLc SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
VLDLc SerPl-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
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 your blood. VLDL is made mainly in the liver and transports cholesterol and triglycerides to other parts of the body.

Why might I need this test?

VLDL cholesterol is usually included in a lipid profile to help evaluate cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk. Your clinician may also order it when monitoring cholesterol-lowering treatment or evaluating an abnormal result from another lipid test.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory measures or calculates VLDL cholesterol as part of a lipid profile. The result is reported as a mass concentration, or the amount of cholesterol per unit volume of blood.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting. For a standard lipid profile, fasting for about 9 to 12 hours may be recommended, and water is generally allowed. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to do so.

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 different from LDL cholesterol?
Yes. VLDL carries cholesterol mainly from the liver to other tissues, while LDL mainly carries cholesterol to tissues and helps build up in blood vessels. Both contribute to cardiovascular risk assessment.
Does this test require fasting?
It depends on your clinician's instructions. Fasting may be requested for a standard lipid profile, while some lipid measurements can be performed without fasting.
Can VLDL cholesterol be treated with medication?
Treatment decisions usually depend on the complete lipid profile and your overall cardiovascular risk. Lifestyle changes and, when appropriate, cholesterol-lowering medicines may be recommended by your clinician.
  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