Test Code 252
Test Details
Very Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (VLDL-C)
VLDL is a type of lipoprotein made in the liver that carries triglycerides and cholesterol. VLDL-C is the amount of cholesterol carried by VLDL lipoproteins.
Methodology
VLDL-C is calculated as follows:
TC – Direct LDL-C – Direct HDL-C = VLDL-C
Patient Preparation
8-12 hour fast prior to collection. Patient may drink water only.
Preferred Specimen
Green Top Tube
(Lithium Heparin plasma separator tube with gel)
Alternate Specimen
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 7 days
Lab Values
Very Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (VLDL-C)
- Optimal: <30 mg/dL
- Borderline: 30-40 mg/dL
- Increased Risk: >40 mg/dL
Clinical Significance
Very Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (VLDL-C)
VLDL-C values >40 mg/dL are associated with increased CVD risk.1-2
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.
- 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 (VLDL-C)
- Lifestyle modification
- Statins
- Niacin
- Fibrates
- Fish oil
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitor
