Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Serum
- EDTA Plasma
- Li Hep Plasma
5 - 10ml whole blood
Sample Processing in Laboratory
UsualSample Preparation
Centrifuge specimensTurnaround Time
1 daySample Stability
UsualLDL Cholesterol (calculated)
General Information
LDL is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood. LDL is considered to be undesirable because it deposits excess cholesterol in the walls of blood vessels and contributes to 'hardening of the arteries' and heart disease. Hence LDL cholesterol is often termed 'bad' cholesterol. LDL levels are requested as part a lipid profile, along with total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides. LDL is calculated from the results of the triglyceride, total cholesterol and HDL results.Patient Preparation
Ideally fasting specimen (12 hour fast)Notes
LDL cholesterol concentration is estimated from the concentrations of Total Cholesterol (TC), HDL Cholesterol and Triglycerides (TG) using the Friedewald equation.LDL cholesterol = TC- HDL - (TG/2.2)
The Friedewald equation should not be used under the following circumstances: when chylomicrons are present; when plasma triglyceride concentration exceeds 4.52 mmol/L; in patients with dysbetalipoproteinemia.
Reference Range
Less than 3.3 mmol/LSpecifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
- EQA Status: NEQAS