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

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

Measures VLDL cholesterol in blood using ultracentrifugation. VLDL carries triglycerides and cholesterol from the liver to other tissues.

Quick summary

["Higher VLDL cholesterol can contribute to cardiovascular risk, particularly when triglycerides or LDL cholesterol are also elevated."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48618-3
Short code
VLDLc SerPl.Ultracent-mCnc
Synonyms
VLDLc SerPl.Ultracent-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 blood test measures the amount of cholesterol in very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), a lipoprotein made by the liver that mainly carries triglycerides in the blood.

Why might I need this test?

VLDL cholesterol is often included when a clinician evaluates cardiovascular risk or evaluates cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It may be measured as part of a lipid panel.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is separated into its liquid component, and VLDL is isolated and measured by ultracentrifugation. The laboratory then reports the concentration of VLDL cholesterol in the sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the preparation instructions provided by your clinician. Some lipid tests are performed while fasting, so you may be asked to avoid food and drinks other than water for a specified period.

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 triglycerides?
No. VLDL is a cholesterol-carrying particle that transports triglycerides, while triglycerides measure the total amount of triglyceride in the blood.
Why is VLDL sometimes listed as a calculated result?
Some laboratories estimate VLDL cholesterol from the triglyceride level instead of measuring it directly. Direct measurement by ultracentrifugation may be used when a separate VLDL measurement is requested.
Does a high VLDL result mean I have heart disease?
No. It is one risk factor and does not diagnose heart disease on its own. Your clinician should interpret it with other cholesterol measurements, medical history, and other cardiovascular risk factors.
  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