Direct LDL

Test Code

8293

CPT Codes
83721

Preferred Specimen

1 mL serum

Patient Preparation
If a Direct LDL-cholesterol measurement is to be performed along with triglycerides, but not part of a lipid panel, then the patient should be fasting 9-12 hours prior to collection. If the Direct LDL cholesterol is ordered along with a lipid panel, then a fasting sample is not required.

Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Plasma collected in: Sodium heparin (green-top) tube or lithium heparin (green-top) tube

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 6 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 31 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Anticoagulants other than heparin

Methodology
Enzymatic

Setup Schedule

Set up: Sun-Thurs; Report available: 3-6 days

Clinical Significance

LDL cholesterol is a key factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), while HDL cholesterol has often been observed to have a protective effect. Even within the normal range of total cholesterol concentrations, an increase in LDL cholesterol can produce an associated increased risk for CAD. LDL cholesterol binds to receptor sites on macrophages in blood vessel walls inciting several changes to the blood wall which enhance atherosclerotic plaque development.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.