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ldl-cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) Test

LDL-Cholesterol (Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol)

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clinical definition of ldl-cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol)

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.

when do you expect results?

24 to 36 Hours

why get tested?

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.

reason to take ldl-cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) test

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)

preparations needed for ldl-cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) test

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.

sample required?

Specimen type: Serum (Blood Sample)

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

Understanding results ofLDL-Cholesterol (Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol)

Reference RangeInterpretation
100-129 mg/dLnear optimal/above optimal
Less than 100 mg/dLoptimal
160- 189 mg/dLhigh
130-159 mg/dLborderline high
190 mg/dL and abovevery high

‘*A Reference range is a set of values which helps the healthcare professional to interpret a medical test. It may vary with age, gender, and other factors. Reference ranges may also vary between labs, in value & units depending on instruments used and method of establishment of reference ranges’