Lipid Profile: Total Cholesterol (Serum)
This test measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, which includes both HDL (good) and LDL (bad) cholesterol. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that your body needs for healthy cells but can become harmful if levels are too high.
["Your cholesterol levels help assess your risk for heart disease and other health conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15293-4
- Short code
- Width Testis-L US.meas
- Synonyms
- Width Testis-L US.meas
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-measured
- 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 an essential component of cell membranes and a precursor to hormones and vitamin D. However, having too much cholesterol in your blood can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease or stroke. This test helps doctors monitor your overall cardiovascular health and guide treatment if needed.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is required for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re fasting, your doctor will advise you to avoid eating or drinking (except water) for 12 hours before the test. Fasting may be recommended if your doctor suspects high cholesterol.
What the Results Mean
Your cholesterol results will show your total cholesterol level, which is the sum of HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. While exact reference ranges vary by lab, higher-than-normal levels may indicate a need for lifestyle changes, diet adjustments, or medication to manage your health.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
High cholesterol can be influenced by genetics, diet (e.g., high intake of saturated or trans fats), lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Some medications may also affect cholesterol levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cholesterol plays a critical role in maintaining normal bodily functions, but consistently high levels can damage blood vessels over time. Regular monitoring helps prevent serious complications like heart attacks or strokes. If your results are concerning, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatments.
Short name
Total Cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
What does a high cholesterol level mean for my health?
How can I lower my cholesterol naturally?
Do I need to fast before this test?
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