LipidsReported in mg/dLLDL cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, the fraction most linked with plaque building up in arteries.
What it measures
LDL particles carry cholesterol from the liver out to the body. When there are too many for too long, cholesterol deposits in artery walls. For adults, an optimal LDL on this kind of panel is under 100 mg/dL. People with known heart disease or diabetes are often given a lower personal target by their clinician. The lab may calculate LDL from the other lipids, and that calculation is less reliable when triglycerides are very high.
Why it is on the panel
LDL is the lipid number treatment decisions usually turn on. Statins and other medicines, diet, and weight change it. Seeing your own number is the point of screening, long before symptoms.
How to read it
Read LDL with HDL, triglycerides, blood pressure, HbA1c, and family history. A borderline LDL in someone with diabetes and a high blood pressure is a different conversation from the same LDL in a young adult with no other risks. If triglycerides are over about 400 mg/dL, ask whether the LDL was measured directly.
When it runs higher
Saturated fat in the diet, genetic high cholesterol, hypothyroidism, and nephrotic-range protein loss raise LDL. Adult categories often call 100–129 near or above optimal, 130–159 borderline high, 160–189 high, and 190 or higher very high.
When it runs lower
A low LDL is the direction prevention aims for. Very low values can follow treatment, hyperthyroidism, or severe illness. They are rarely a problem on their own.
Before the draw
Fast for 12 hours beforehand, with water allowed. A recent meal raises triglycerides and can shift the rest of the lipid panel.
Same group
Other Lipids tests
How to use this page
This page explains what the measurement is for. It is educational. Your Healiam report includes the reference interval for your age and sex, and a clinician reads that result with your history, medicines, and the rest of the panel. Talk with a clinician before changing diet, supplements, or treatment because of a number on a report.
LDL
LDL is part of the full panel.
No referral or insurance required.
One preventive draw covers this measurement and the rest of the Healiam panel. CLIA-certified results come back in days.