Test Code 223
Test Details
Small Dense LDL Cholesterol (sdLDL-C)
Small dense LDL particles are denser and more atherogenic LDL-particles. sdLDL-C gives the total amount of LDL-C in the small dense format.
Methodology
Enzymatic
Patient Preparation
Morning draw and fasting preferred.
Preferred Specimen
1.0 mL serum (0.5 mL minimum) collected in serum separator tube (SST/Tiger Top)
Alternate Specimen
- 1.0 mL EDTA plasma (0.5 mL minimum) collected in plasma separator tube (Pearl Top)
- Dried Blood collected on an AdvanceDx 100 card
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 3 days
Lab Values
Small Dense LDL Cholesterol (sdLDL-C)
- Optimal: <20 mg/dL
- Borderline: 20–40 mg/dL
- Increased Risk: >40 mg/dL
Clinical Significance
Small Dense LDL Cholesterol (sdLDL-C)
High levels are associated with a two- to three-fold increased risk for CVD events.1-3
References:
- Ai M, Otokozawa S, Asztalos BF, Ito Y, Nakajima K, White CC, Cupples LA, Wilson PW, Schaefer EJ. Small dense low density lipoprotein cholesterol and coronary heart disease: results from the Framingham Off spring Study. Clin Chem. 2010; 56(6):967-976.
- Tsai MY, Steff en BT, Guan W, et al. New automated assay of small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol identifies risk of coronary heart disease: the Multi-ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2014;34(1):196-201.
- Hirano T, Ito Y, Koba S, et al. Clinical significance of small dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels determined by the simple precipitation method. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2004;24(3):558–563.
Treatment Options
Small Dense LDL Cholesterol (sdLDL-C)
- Lifestyle modification
- Statins
- Niacin
- Fibrates
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
