Lipid Panel (Cholesterol Panel)

Sample Type

• 1 mL serum collected in SST

Who should get a Lipid Panel?

A Lipid Panel measures Cholesterol, Triglycerides, and HDL and calculates the LDL level. A Lipid Panel is an essential screening test for Heart Health and for the prevention of cardiovascular disease such as heart attack and stroke. The Lipid Panel can be used to screen for heart disease as well as be used for monitoring treatment for those that are currently on cholesterol lowering medicines. Medical guidelines suggest that Cholesterol screening occur every two years for men starting at age 45 and for women starting at age 55 and annually for all individuals after age 65. More frequent or EARLIER testing may be indicated if:

• You have a family history of Heart attacks
• Are not physically very active
• Have diabetes or other risk factors
• Are a Smoker

Components of this test include:

Total Cholesterol – This is your body’s cholesterol level. Cholesterol is both made by your liver and absorbed from dietary fat. Triglycerides – This is a type of fat that is stored in cells. Triglyceride levels increase with being overweight, unhealthy diet, excess alcohol, being sedentary or with diabetes. HDL – Often called good cholesterol, this molecule helps carry away fats from arteries. LDL – Often called bad cholesterol, this molecule causes fatty build-up in in arteries and organs and is associated with increased risk for heart attack and stroke. LDL is calculated from the values of the other parameters. If a more accurate measurement is required a Lipid Panel with Direct LDL measurement is available.

Turnaround Time

• Note: Result turnaround times are only an estimate and may be subject to change.
• Test turnaround time for the Lipid Panel is typically 3-5 business days.

Patient Preparation

• No special preparation is needed