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 # |
LDL, Direct (DRLDL)
Test CodeLAB102
Quest Code
8293
CPT Codes
83721
Preferred Specimen
1 mL serum in gold top tube
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
Instructions
If an LDL-cholesterol measurement is to be performed along with triglycerides, the patient should be fasting 9-12 hours prior to collection.
Transport Container
Serum separator tube (SST)
Transport Temperature
Room temperature
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 6 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 31 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 31 days
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Anticoagulants other than heparin
Methodology
Enzymatic
Setup Schedule
Day shift Sunday through friday
Report Available
5 days
Reference Range
<20 Years | <110 mg/dL |
≥20 Years | <100 mg/dL |
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.
Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics - South Region |