Skip to content

7-Ketocholesterol, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

A blood test that measures 7-ketocholesterol, a cholesterol-related compound, to help evaluate cholesterol metabolism and steroid production.

Quick summary

["This specialized blood test measures a cholesterol-related compound that may be useful when cholesterol or adrenal steroid metabolism is suspected."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92764-0
Short code
7-Ketochol SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
7-Ketochol SerPl-sCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 7-ketocholesterol in serum or plasma. It is a specialized blood test, and the result is usually interpreted together with other cholesterol and steroid-hormone tests.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest a condition affecting cholesterol processing, adrenal function, or steroid-hormone production. It is generally not part of a routine cholesterol panel.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected by venipuncture. Serum or plasma is separated from the sample and sent to a laboratory, where 7-ketocholesterol is measured and the concentration is reported.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Tell the healthcare professional if you take cholesterol-lowering or steroid medications, and follow any instructions provided by the laboratory.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated or otherwise unusual 7-ketocholesterol concentration may occur with altered cholesterol metabolism, changes in adrenal steroid production, or certain medication effects. Because this test is specialized and can be affected by several factors, an abnormal result should be interpreted by a clinician using symptoms, medication history, and other laboratory findings.

Short name

7-Ketocholesterol

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine cholesterol test?
No. A routine cholesterol panel commonly measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, while 7-ketocholesterol is a distinct cholesterol-related compound.
Does a high result mean I have a specific disease?
Not by itself. High or unusual levels can have several causes, so the result must be interpreted with other tests and your clinical history.
Do medications affect the result?
Some cholesterol-lowering or steroid medications may influence 7-ketocholesterol levels. Do not stop or change medication without discussing it with your healthcare professional.
  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