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Test Code LDL Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), Calculated, Plasma or Serum

Methodology

Useful to evaluate lipid status.

 

This is a calculated result using HDL, cholesterol and triglyceride values. LDL values cannot be calculated when a patient’s triglyceride result is >400 mg/dL. When ordered as part of a lipid panel, a direct LDL will reflex if the triglyceride result is >400 mg/dL.

Performing Laboratory

St. Mary's Regional Medical Center-Chemistry

Specimen Requirements

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

 

Plasma

Container/Tube: Light green-top (lithium heparin) tube

Specimen: 1 mL of lithium heparin plasma

Transport Temperature: Ambient

Collection Instructions: Fasting (12-14 hour)

Note:

1. Indicate plasma.
2. Label specimen appropriately (plasma).

 

Serum

Container/Tube: Plain, red-top tube or serum gel tube

Specimen: 1 mL of serum

Transport Temperature: Ambient

Collection Instructions: Fasting (12-14 hour)

Note:

1. Indicate serum.

2. Label specimen appropriately (serum).

Reference Values

Age greater than17 years:

Optimal: <100 mg/dL

Near optimal: 100-129 mg/dL

High Borderline: 130-159 mg/dL

High: 160-189 mg/dL

Very high: ≥190 mg/dL

 

Ages 2 - 17 years:

The Expert Panel on Integrated Guidelines for Cardiovascular Heath and Risk Reduction in Children and Adolescents has set the following guidelines for LDL-C in children and adolescents:

Acceptable:        <110 mg/dL

Borderline high:  110-129 mg/dL

High:                    > 130 mg/dL

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday