Lipid Panel with Ratios | Test Detail

Test Purpose

The Lipid Panel with Ratios is ordered to assess cardiovascular disease risk, monitor cholesterol-lowering therapy, and support annual wellness screening for adults 20 years and older, per USPSTF-aligned screening intervals.

What This Test Measures

Total Cholesterol

Sum of all cholesterol carried in the blood, including LDL and HDL fractions.

LDL Cholesterol

Often called "bad" cholesterol; elevated levels contribute to arterial plaque.

HDL Cholesterol

"Good" cholesterol that helps clear excess LDL from the bloodstream.

Triglycerides

A fat type in blood; elevated levels are linked to metabolic syndrome.

Sample Type

Specimen: Venous blood (serum) Volume: 3–5 mL Collection tube: Gold-top SST

Reference Ranges

Biomarker	Optimal Range	Borderline	High Risk
Total Cholesterol	< 200 mg/dL	200–239 mg/dL	≥ 240 mg/dL
LDL Cholesterol	< 100 mg/dL	130–159 mg/dL	≥ 160 mg/dL
HDL Cholesterol	> 60 mg/dL	40–59 mg/dL	< 40 mg/dL
Triglycerides	< 150 mg/dL	150–199 mg/dL	≥ 200 mg/dL

Ranges reflect general adult population guidelines and may be adjusted for individual cardiovascular risk factors by your provider.

Fasting Instructions

Fast for 9–12 hours before your draw. Water is permitted; avoid coffee, juice, alcohol, and food during this window for the most accurate triglyceride result.

Preparation Guide

Schedule your draw for the morning to make fasting easier.
Continue prescribed medications unless your provider advises otherwise.
Avoid strenuous exercise in the 24 hours before your draw.
Bring a photo ID and insurance card, if applicable, to the collection site.

Report Turnaround Time

Results are typically reviewed and available in your dashboard within 24 hours of sample receipt at the laboratory.

Clinical Notes

Non-fasting lipid panels are increasingly accepted for general screening; fasting remains preferred when triglycerides are being closely monitored or when prior results were elevated. LDL is typically calculated using the Friedewald equation unless triglycerides exceed 400 mg/dL, in which case direct LDL measurement is recommended.

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