Cholesterol Test, Lipid Panel, Standard

Formal Name of the Test:
Lipid Panel, Standard

Other Names Used:
LP; FLP; fasting lipids; cholesterol panel; lipids blood test; Coronary Risk Panel

Sample Required:
Serum

Test Overview:
Lipid Panel, Standard – The Lipid Panel, Standard measures serum cholesterol, and triglyceride (TG) levels; it includes evaluation of the cholesterol/HDL-C ratio (calculated), HDL-C, LDL-C (calculated), non-HDL-C (calculated), total cholesterol, and TG. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in the evaluation of cardiovascular risk and the likelihood of suffering an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease, as well as the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome [1].

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. The risk of developing CVD and having an ischemic event is significantly increased in individuals with high LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and TG levels [2,3]. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that Americans aged 20 and above have their lipid levels tested every 4 to 6 years. Children should have their cholesterol tested for the first time between ages 9 and 11, and again between ages 17 and 21. Testing should start earlier if there is a family history of high cholesterol [4].

The AHA recommends repeat measurement of LDL-C within 4 to 12 weeks of starting or changing lipid-lowering therapy, to assess response and adherence, and then every 3 to 12 months as appropriate [4].

Treatment with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for acetaminophen overdose may generate a falsely low result for cholesterol. Venipuncture immediately after or during the administration of the painkiller metamizole (dipyrone) may also lead to falsely low results for cholesterol.

Note: Any or all individual tests from a panel can be ordered separately.

References
1. Stone NJ, et al. Circulation. 2014;129(suppl 2):S1-S45.
2. Arbel Y, et al. Card Diabetol. 2016;15:11.

Test Preparation:
Fasting for 12 hours is required.

Test Performed at:
Quest Diagnostics, Test Code 7600
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