HDL Cholesterol Test
700 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
alpha lipoprotein cholesterol, HDLC, HDL cholesterol electrophoresis
Purpose
The HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol Test is a blood test that measures the amount of HDL cholesterol in your bloodstream. Doctors often refer to HDL as the “good” cholesterol because it removes excess cholesterol from the blood and transports it to the liver for excretion.
This test plays a key role in assessing cardiovascular health. Medical professionals commonly use it to evaluate the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and other heart-related conditions. Low HDL levels increase the risk of heart disease, while higher levels typically offer protective benefits.
Other tests commonly performed alongside the test include LDL Cholesterol Test, Total Cholesterol Test, Triglycerides Test, and Lipid Panel/Profile.
Patient Preparation
The patient should be on a normal diet and stable weight for a week before testing.
Samples
1ml with a minimum volume of 0.7ml of Serum or plasma collected in a Gel-barrier, red-top, or green-top tube (lithium heparin). Avoid using EDTA, oxalate, or citrate plasma. Separate the plasma or serum within 45 minutes of sample collection. Store the sample at room temperature.
Reference Range
39mg/dL>39mg/dL
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours of receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
HDL levels provide insight into your risk for cardiovascular disease. Some possible outcomes of the test include;
Low HDL cholesterol levels (generally less than 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women) are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries.
High HDL levels (60 mg/dL or higher) are usually considered protective, as HDL helps clear excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
However, extremely high HDL levels may sometimes indicate other underlying health conditions or may not provide added benefit, depending on overall lipid profile and health status.
This test is often part of routine health screening and used to monitor patients with existing heart conditions, diabetes, obesity, or those on cholesterol-lowering medications. For more on HDL Cholesterol Test, read this study.