ldl-cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) Test

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) commonly known as "bad" cholesterol is one of the five essential sets of lipoproteins that allow lipids like cholesterol, triglycerides and other fats to be carried within bloodstream.

They are cited in accordance of their sizes i.e. from the smallest to the largest:

• Very low density lipoprotein (VLDL)
• low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
• Intermediate density lipoprotein (IDL)
• high density lipoprotein (HDL)

When too much LDL (bad) cholesterol circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up or clog the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain forming a plaque causing atherosclerosis which may lead to a heart attack or shock. The lower the LDL-C in the blood, the lower is the risk for heart disease or stroke.

24 to 36 Hours

The test verifies levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood which asseses a patients risk for heart diseases. The LDL test is generally ordered as part of a lipid panel, which also detects and determines the total cholesterol, HDL, VLDL and triglyceride levels. As a part of the commonly done Lipid profile tests, medically and mathematically calculated LDL-C is generally reported.

For cost as well as improved TAT (Turn-around -time) a Direct LDL measurement is done only when the calculation of LDL-C will not be accurate because the patient's triglycerides are significantly elevated, hence a higher risk for developing a heart related ailment.

Common symptoms observed and screened for are:

• Hypertension
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches
• Pain, fullness, and/or squeezing sensation of the chest
• Jaw pain, toothache, headache
• Nausea, vomiting, and/or general epigastric (upper middle abdomen) discomfort
• Sweating
• Heartburn and/or indigestion
• Arm pain (more commonly the left arm, but may be either arm)
• Upper back pain
• General malaise (vague feeling of illness)
  
  

Preparatory instructions during specimen collection*:

• Fasting Required.
• Fasting samples have to be collected after a minimum 12-14 hour overnight fasting status.
• Clear fluids like water is allowed during this period. Refrain from consumption of early morning beverages like tea, coffee and milk until specimen collection is completed.

In case of diabetics on oral or injectable hypoglycemic agents, consult your physician about continuing with these medications prior to specimen collection.

Specimen type: Serum (Blood Sample)

Specimen collection procedure: Venipuncture (Collection of blood from a vein, usually from the arm)