MLT GlobeHDL cholesterol
Lipid Profile · also called HDL-C, High-density lipoprotein cholesterol
What it measures
HDL cholesterol measures cholesterol carried in high-density lipoproteins, which remove cholesterol from tissues. Low levels are associated with higher cardiovascular risk and are used in risk calculators.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Serum or lithium-heparin plasma
- Tube: Gold top
- Preparation: Fasting not required.
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| Adult male (desirable) | >40 (>1.0) mg/dL (mmol/L) |
| Adult female (desirable) | >50 (>1.3) mg/dL (mmol/L) |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Regular aerobic exercise
- Moderate alcohol intake
- Oestrogen therapy
- Genetic CETP deficiency
Causes of low values
- Smoking
- Obesity and insulin resistance
- Type 2 diabetes
- High triglycerides
- Anabolic steroids and inactivity
Method
Direct homogeneous enzymatic assay
Good to know
Very high HDL is not always protective. Raising HDL with drugs has not shown cardiovascular benefit.
Related tests
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