Unit Code 9342:
LDL Cholesterol (LDLC), Serum
Useful For
Evaluation of cardiovascular risks
Diagnosis of hypobetalipoproteinemia (values <80 mg/dL)
Diagnosis of abetalipoproteinemia (values undetectable)
Clinical Information
Increased LDLC is widely recognized as a risk factor for
atherosclerotic disease, specifically coronary atherosclerosis.
Diminished or absent LDLC may be a cause of polyneuropathy.
Reference Values
The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) has set the
following guidelines (reference values) for LDLC:
Optimal: <100 mg/dL
Low risk: 100-129 mg/dL
Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
High: 160-189 mg/dL
Very high: > or = 190 mg/dL
Interpretation
Evaluation of cardiovascular risk is based on the following
range of values:
Desirable: <100 mg/dL
Low risk: 100-129 mg/dL
Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
High: 160-189 mg/dL
Very high: > or = 190 mg/dL
Values <80 mg/dL indicate hypobetalipoproteinemia.
Nondetectable LDLC indicates abetalipoproteinemia.
Related polyneuropathy may exist in affected individuals.
Cautions
No stimulants, alcohol, or other depressants for at least 24 hours
before specimen collection
Clinical Reference
Executive Summary of the Third Report of the National Cholesterol
Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation,
and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment
Panel III), JAMA 2001;285:2486-2497
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