A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z # |
Cholesterol
Test CodeCPT Codes
82465
Preferred Specimen
Serum (gold top) tube
Minimum Volume
Other Acceptable Specimens
Instructions
Refrigerate specimen after collection if testing will be delayed. For the most accurate results, collect specimen after a 12 - 14 hour fast.
This test is for Plasma or Serum Cholesterol. For measurement of Cholesterol on Body Fluids, order MISCHOL.
Transport Container
Serum (gold top) tube or Lithium Heparin Plasma (green top) tube
Transport Temperature
Specimen Stability
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Methodology
Colorimetric
Setup Schedule
Daily upon receipt
Report Available
Reference Range
Desirable: < 200 mg/dL
Borderline High: 200 - 239 mg/dL
High: = or > 240 mg/dL
Clinical Significance
Cholesterol is present in tissues and in serum and plasma either as cholesterol or as cholesterol esters bound to proteins. Cholesterol is an essential structural component of cell membranes and the outer layer of plasma lipoproteins and is the precursor of all steroid hormones, including sex and adrenal hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D. Cholesterol measurements are used to evaluate the risk of developing coronary artery occlusion, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and cerebrovascular disease. Coronary atherosclerosis correlates with a high cholesterol level. Cholesterol concentrations are increased in primary hypercholesterolemia; secondary hyperlipoproteinemia, including nephrotic syndrome; primary biliary cirrhosis; hypothyroidism; and in some cases diabetes mellitus. Low cholesterol concentrations may be found in malnutrition, malabsorption, advanced malignancy, and hyperthyroidism. Serum cholesterol concentration depends on many factors, including age and gender.
This test is for Plasma or Serum Cholesterol. For measurement of Cholesterol on Body Fluids, order MISCHOL.