Test Code 222
Test Details
Direct Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C)
LDL-C is a measure of the amount of cholesterol in the atherogenic low-density lipoproteins. The direct measurement of LDL-C is not affected by non-fasting state. Values are somewhat higher than calculated LDL-C.
Methodology
Enzymatic colorimetric.
Patient Preparation
8-12 hour fast prior to collection. Patient may drink water only. (If ordered as part of a stand-alone test, fasting is not required.)
Preferred Specimen
Green Top Tube
(Lithium Heparin plasma separator tube with gel)
Alternate Specimen
Dried Blood collected on an AdvanceDx 100 card
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 7 days
Lab Values
Direct Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C)
| Age | Optimal | Borderline | Increased Risk |
| ≤18 yrs | <100 mg/dL | 100 – 129 mg/dL | >129 mg/dL |
| >18 yrs with CVD | <70 mg/dL | 70 – 100 mg/dL | >100 mg/dL |
| >18 yrs without CVD | <100 mg/dL | 100 – 160 mg/dL | >160 mg/dL |
Clinical Significance
Direct Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C)
Elevated LDL-C is a primary, independent risk factor for CVD per NCEP-ATP III.1
References:
- Goff DC Jr, Lloyd-Jones DM, Bennett G, et al. 2013 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Assessment of Cardiovascular Risk: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Circulation. 2014;129(25 Suppl 2):S49-73.
Treatment Options
Direct Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C)
- Lifestyle modification
- Statins
- Fibrates
- Soluble Fiber
- Niacin
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitor
- Bile acid sequestrants
- PCSK9 inhibitor (if indicated for a very high LDL-C)
