HDL Cholesterol Test For Heart Disease

An HDL cholesterol test (high-density lipoprotein) measures the amount of cholesterol found inside high-density lipoproteins (HDL) in a sample of your blood. HDL Cholesterol is considered "good cholesterol" and is associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease events.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test

Here are the basic details for HDL Test.

Also Known As	High-density Lipoproteins Test, HDL-C Test
Type	Blood Test
Purpose	Measure HDL in Blood
Sample Type	Blood
Preparation	No Special Preparation Required
Fasting	No
Gender	All
Age-Group	Any
Normal Value	40-60 mg/dL
Reporting Time	2 - 4 Hours
Cost	100 - 400* INR

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Full Form

Full Form of HDL Cholesterol Test is High-density Lipoproteins Cholesterol Test.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Means

The HDL cholesterol test is usually done as part of a lipid panel, which also measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

• The HDL cholesterol test measures the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the blood.
• HDL is considered "good cholesterol" because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and carry it back to the liver for processing.
• A high level of HDL cholesterol is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, while a low level of HDL cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease.

Interesting Facts About HDL

• HDL stands for High-Density Lipoprotein, often referred to as "good cholesterol."
• HDL helps remove LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of plaque buildup in arteries.
• Higher levels of HDL are associated with a decreased risk of heart disease, while low levels are considered a risk factor for cardiovascular problems.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Purpose

The purpose of the HDL Cholesterol Test is below.

• HDL cholesterol test measures the "good cholesterol" in the blood.
• It helps to assess the risk of developing heart disease.
• High levels of HDL cholesterol indicate good heart health and lower risk of heart disease, while low levels indicate an increased risk.

 

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Preparation

The HDL cholesterol test is usually done as part of a lipid panel, which also measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. But here's a list of HDL cholesterol test preparation before, during, and after the test:

 

Before Test

• No special preparation is usually required for an HDL cholesterol test.
• However, it is recommended to fast for 9-12 hours before the test if other lipid panel tests are also being done.
• It is important to inform the healthcare provider of any medications being taken, as some drugs can affect HDL cholesterol levels.

 

During Test

• A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in the arm using a needle.
• The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

 

After Test

• There are no specific instructions or restrictions after an HDL cholesterol test.
• The healthcare provider will discuss the test results and any necessary next steps with the patient.

Summary

Prepare for an HDL cholesterol test by informing the healthcare provider about medications, undergo a blood draw procedure, and discuss the results with the healthcare provider for further guidance.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Procedure

Here's a list of the procedure for an HDL cholesterol test:

• The HDL cholesterol test is a simple blood test that can be done in a doctor's office, clinic, or laboratory.
• A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in the arm using a needle.
• The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
• The laboratory measures the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the blood.
• The HDL cholesterol test is usually done as part of a lipid panel, which also measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
• Results of the HDL cholesterol test are usually available within a few days.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Result

• The ideal HDL cholesterol level is generally considered to be 60 mg/dL or higher.
• A level below 40 mg/dL in men or 50 mg/dL in women is considered low and may increase the risk of heart disease.
• The healthcare provider will consider the HDL cholesterol level along with other lipid panel results and other risk factors to assess a person's overall risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Report

HDL Test Report PDF

HDL Cholesterol Test Normal Report

HDL Cholesterol Normal Test Report PDF Format

HDL Cholesterol Test Normal Result Report PDF

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Abnormal Report

HDL Cholesterol Abnormal Test Report PDF Format

HDL Cholesterol Test Abnormal Result Report PDF

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Normal Range

Here's a normal range for HDL cholesterol:

HDL Cholesterol	Normal Range
Men	40-60 mg/dL
Women	50-60 mg/dL

 

It's important to note that the ideal HDL cholesterol level can vary based on a person's individual risk factors for cardiovascular disease, so it's best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine what range is appropriate for you.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Interpretation

Here's a detail for HDL cholesterol test interpretation:

HDL Cholesterol Level	Interpretation
< 40 mg/dL for men or < 50 mg/dL for women	Low HDL cholesterol levels may increase the risk of heart disease.
40-59 mg/dL	Average HDL cholesterol level.
60 mg/dL or higher	High HDL cholesterol levels may provide protection against heart disease.

Summary

It's important to note that HDL cholesterol levels should be interpreted in the context of other lipid panel results and individual risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A healthcare provider can provide a more personalized interpretation of HDL cholesterol levels.

 

Who should get an HDL Cholesterol Test?

• Adults over the age of 20 should have their cholesterol levels checked at least once every 5 years.
• Individuals with a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease may need to have their cholesterol levels checked more frequently.
• People with a personal history of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease may need more frequent cholesterol testing.
• Those who have a history of high cholesterol or who are taking medication to manage their cholesterol should have their levels checked regularly to ensure that their treatment is effective.
• People who are starting a new medication that may affect cholesterol levels may need to have their levels checked before and after starting the medication.

 

Specimen Requirments For HDL Cholesterol Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the HDL Cholesterol Test.

Specimen	Blood
Volume	5 mL
Container	Serum Separator Tube (SST)

 

HDL Cholesterol Test is Safe?

Yes, the HDL cholesterol test is generally considered safe. Here are some points on the safety of the test:

• The HDL cholesterol test is a simple blood test that poses minimal risk to the patient.
• The test is performed using a small needle to draw a blood sample from a vein, which may cause mild discomfort or bruising at the site of the needle stick.
• There is a small risk of infection or bleeding at the site of the needle stick, but these risks are generally very low.
• Patients may experience dizziness or fainting during the blood draw, but this is also rare.
• In rare cases, patients may experience an allergic reaction to the needle, but this is very uncommon.

It's always a good idea to discuss any concerns about the safety of a medical test with a healthcare provider.

 

When Do You Get HDL Cholesterol Test Results?

The time it takes to receive HDL cholesterol test results can vary depending on the lab that performs the test and the method used to analyze the blood sample.

• In general, you can expect to receive results within 2 - 4 Hours after the test is performed.
• Some labs may offer expedited or same-day test results for an additional fee.
• Your healthcare provider should be able to give you an estimate of when you can expect to receive your test results.
• Once your test results are available, your healthcare provider will review them with you and discuss any necessary follow-up or treatment plans.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Limitation

Here are some possible limitations of the HDL Cholesterol Test.

• HDL cholesterol test does not provide information about other cholesterol components.
• Results may vary due to factors like recent illness or medication use.
• Test does not assess functionality of HDL cholesterol particles.
• Genetic factors can influence HDL cholesterol levels independently.
• Lifestyle factors can affect HDL cholesterol levels, limiting accuracy.

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Risk Factors

Here is the potential risk factor of the HDL Cholesterol Test.

• Genetic factors and family history of low HDL cholesterol.
• Sedentary lifestyle and lack of regular physical activity.
• Poor diet high in saturated and trans fats.
• Obesity and excess body weight.

 

Doctor Recommendations After HDL Cholesterol Test Result

Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after HDL Cholesterol Test.

HDL Cholesterol Result	Doctor to Visit	Reason to Visit
High	Primary Care Doctor	Evaluate overall cardiovascular health
Normal	No specific doctor	No immediate health concerns
Low	Primary Care Doctor	Assess risk of heart disease

 

HDL Cholesterol Test Price

Here are the estimated HDL Cholesterol Test Price in India with different top cities:

City	Price Range (INR)*
Mumbai	100 - 400
New Delhi	100 - 400
Bangalore	100 - 400
Hyderabad	100 - 400
Kolkata	100 - 400
Pune	100 - 400
Lucknow	100 - 400
Noida	100 - 400
Surat	100 - 400
Gurugram	100 - 400
Patna	100 - 400
Chennai	100 - 400
Jaipur	100 - 400
Ahmedabad	100 - 400

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

 

Summary

Overall, HDL cholesterol test is a safe and simple blood test that measures the levels of HDL cholesterol in the blood, which is an important indicator of heart health. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

 

Reference

• High-density lipoprotein - Wikipedia [1].
• Cholesterol Levels [2].
• Cholesterol - Wikipedia [3].