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Cholesterol and Triglycerides Profile (Serum)

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

This test measures key fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) in your blood, which help assess heart health and risk of cardiovascular disease.

Quick summary

["Your blood fat levels can indicate your risk for heart disease and help guide lifestyle or medical recommendations."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110020-5
Short code
AChR Mod Ab Msmt Ser
Synonyms
AChR Mod Ab Msmt Ser
Category
coagulation
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 This Test Measures

Cholesterol is a type of fat your body needs for healthy cells, but too much can build up in your arteries. Triglycerides are another type of fat that circulate in your blood. Both are important for assessing your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Why It Matters for Your Health

High cholesterol and triglycerides can clog your arteries over time, increasing your risk of heart attack or stroke. Your doctor may use these results to recommend dietary changes, exercise, or medications to improve your numbers.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. You may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the test to get more accurate results.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated cholesterol or triglycerides can result from diet, lack of exercise, genetics, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or obesity. Low levels may indicate nutritional deficiencies or metabolic issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lipid Panel

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results back?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For the most accurate results, you should fast for 12 hours before your blood draw, avoiding food and liquids (except water) except for medications.
What if my cholesterol or triglycerides are too high?
If your results show high levels, your doctor may recommend dietary changes (like reducing saturated fats), increased physical activity, or medications like statins to help lower them.
  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