High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C)
Also known as: Alpha-Lipoprotein Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol Electrophoresis, HDLC
Use
Monitoring of HDL-cholesterol in serum is of clinical importance since an inverse correlation exists between serum HDL-cholesterol concentrations and the risk of atherosclerotic disease. Elevated HDL-cholesterol concentrations are protective against coronary heart disease, while reduced HDL-cholesterol concentrations, particularly in conjunction with elevated triglycerides, increase the cardiovascular risk.2,3 Strategies have emerged for treating cardiovascular disease by increasing HDL-cholesterol levels.4,5
Special Instructions
Total cholesterol and triglycerides are required as well for determination of lipid risk factors for coronary artery disease. The test should not be performed until three months after a myocardial infarction or similar traumatic episode, such as severe infection or inflammation.
Limitations
Decreased HDL-C can be due to genetic factors like primary hypoalphalipoproteinemia, lifestyle factors such as cigarette smoking, obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and lack of exercise, or medications such as steroids, thiazides, beta-adrenergic blockers, probucol, and neomycin. HDL-C is especially low in obese, sedentary men, smokers, and those with diabetes mellitus. Uremia is also associated with lower HDL-C levels.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2085-9
- 2085-9
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube. Do not use oxalate, EDTA, or citrate plasma.
Collection Instructions
Separate serum or plasma from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Patient Preparation
Patient should be on a normal diet and maintain a stable weight for a week prior to testing. Any drugs should be discontinued for three to four weeks if possible. Fasting is not necessary.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Improper labeling
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |