Test Code 257(includes VLDL-C and triglycerides)
Test Details
Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol/Triglycerides Ratio (VLDL-C/TG)
This is a ratio calculated by dividing very low density lipoprotein cholesterol by triglycerides. A high ratio is linked to abnormal lipid metabolism and increased risk of CVD events.
Methodology
The VLDL-C ratio is calculated as follows:
VLDL-C/TG ratio = VLDL-C/TG
Patient Preparation
8-12 hour fast prior to collection. Patient may drink water only.
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)
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 7 days
Lab Values
Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol/Triglycerides Ratio (VLDL-C/TG)
- Optimal: <0.20
- Borderline: 0.20 – 0.30
- Increased Risk: >0.30
Clinical Significance
Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol/Triglycerides Ratio (VLDL-C/TG)
- When the VLDL-C/TG ratio is > 0.30 it indicates the presence of cholesterol-rich chylomicron and VLDL remnant lipoproteins, which increase CVD risk.1
- A VLDL-C/TG ratio of > 0.30 has been associated with an increased risk of CVD and dysbetalipoproteinemia often associated with the apoE2/2 genotype.
References:
- Stone NJ, Robinson J, Lichtenstein AH, et al. 2013 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults: 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
Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol/Triglycerides Ratio (VLDL-C/TG)
- Lifestyle modification
- Statins
- Niacin
- Fibrates
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
