VLDL Cholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
Measures very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in serum or plasma, usually as part of a lipid assessment.
["This test measures the cholesterol carried by VLDL particles and is generally interpreted with your other lipid results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35199-9
- Short code
- VLDLc SerPl-msCnc
- Synonyms
- VLDLc SerPl-msCnc
- 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?
VLDL cholesterol is the amount of cholesterol carried by very-low-density lipoprotein particles in your blood. VLDL is produced by the liver and helps transport triglycerides to other tissues.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be included in a lipid panel or ordered to assess cholesterol levels, especially when triglycerides are elevated or cardiovascular risk is being evaluated. It is usually interpreted along with total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol rather than by itself.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the amount of cholesterol in the VLDL fraction is measured in the laboratory. The result is reported as a mass concentration in the sample.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow any fasting or timing instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Fasting may be requested when this test is part of a complete lipid panel, but do not fast unnecessarily unless instructed.
Reference range
Optimal: <100 mg/dLN/A
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.
An elevated VLDL cholesterol result may occur with high triglyceride levels, obesity, diabetes, or other conditions that affect lipid metabolism. It can contribute to the overall cardiovascular risk pattern, so results should be reviewed with the other lipid measurements and your medical history.
Short name
VLDL Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is VLDL cholesterol the same as LDL cholesterol?
Does a high VLDL cholesterol result mean I have heart disease?
How often should VLDL cholesterol be checked?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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