Lipoprotein analysis (lipoprotein profile or lipid profile) measures blood levels of total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglyceride.
Cholesterol is an important precursor of bile acids, which is crucial for fat absorption, is a precursor for steroidogenesis in the adrenal glands, gonads and placenta, and is an essential component of the cell membrane.
Triglycerides are essential for the transport and storage of energy within the body. Only small amounts are found in the blood. Having a high triglyceride level along with a high LDL cholesterol may increase chances of having heart disease more than having only a high LDL cholesterol level.
Everyone ages 20 and older should have their cholesterol measured at least once every 5 years. Experts recommend that men 35 and older and women 45 and older be screened for lipid disorders more often. This blood test is done after a 9- to 12-hour fasting.
Total cholesterol level in adults:
Normal: Less than 200 mg/dL
Borderline high: 200 to 239 mg/dL
High: At or above 240 mg/dL
LDL cholesterol for adult:
Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL (This is the goal for people with diabetes or heart disease.)
Near optimal: 100 to 129 mg/dL
Borderline high: 130 to 159 mg/dL
High: 160 to 189 mg/dL
Very high: 190 mg/dL and higher
HDL (good) cholesterol protects against heart disease, so for HDL, higher numbers are better. A level less than 40 mg/dL is low and is considered a major risk factor because it increases your risk for developing heart disease. HDL levels of 60 mg/dL or more help to lower your risk for heart disease.
A blood test “lipoprotein profile”
Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL (This is the goal for people with diabetes or heart disease.)
Near optimal: 100 to 129 mg/dL
Borderline high: 130 to 159 mg/dL
High: 160 to 189 mg/dL
Very high: 190 mg/dL and higher
HDL (good) cholesterol protects against heart disease, so for HDL, higher numbers are better. A level less than 40 mg/dL is low and is considered a major risk factor because it increases your risk for developing heart disease. HDL levels of 60 mg/dL or more help to lower your risk for heart disease.
A blood test “lipoprotein profile”
