Monitoring of HDL-cholesterol in serum is of clinical importance since an inverse correlation exists between serum HDL-cholesterol concentrations and the risk of atherosclerotic disease. Elevated HDL-cholesterol concentrations are protective against coronary heart disease, while reduced HDL-cholesterol concentrations, particularly in conjunction with elevated triglycerides, increase the cardiovascular risk. LDL cholesterol is calculated using the Friedewald equation

Refer to NICE Clinical Guideline 181 (Lipid modification: cardiovascular risk assessment and the modification of blood lipids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease) for further information on interpretation

Please contact laboratory for further information on interferences.

Elevated concentrations of free fatty acids and denatured proteins may cause falsely elevated HDL cholesterol results.

This test may require the patient to be in a fasting state. For a fasting state the patient should refrain from any foods or liquids other than water for 8hrs.