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
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 (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
