Standard Lipid Panel

LDL (calculated). Low-density lipoproteins, commonly abbreviated as LDL, are frequently labeled as "bad" cholesterol. LDL is responsible for transporting cholesterol to various parts of the body, as cholesterol plays a crucial role in forming cell membranes, hormones, and digestive substances. However, LDL earns its "bad" reputation because, when its levels are high over prolonged periods and combined with inflammation, it can lead to the formation of plaques within the blood vessel linings. These plaques narrow and restrict blood flow, increasing the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Thus, higher LDL levels are associated with an elevated risk of heart health issues.

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood, originating from the food you eat. They are stored in fat cells and released for energy between meals. High levels can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, especially when combined with low HDL (good) cholesterol or in the context of type 2 diabetes. Elevated triglycerides are also linked to obesity, uncontrolled diabetes, regular alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Managing high triglycerides involves lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and in some patients, medication.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance similar to fat, produced by the liver. It's a crucial part of every cell in the body and is instrumental in creating hormones such as testosterone and vitamin D, as well as substances that aid in digestion. Maintaining balanced cholesterol levels is vital for heart health. The total cholesterol in your body is made up of various types of lipoproteins, which are the carriers of cholesterol, in addition to triglycerides.

HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. High levels of HDL cholesterol can reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke by transporting cholesterol to your liver, where it's expelled from your body.

The total cholesterol/HDL ratio is a measure used to assess the risk of heart disease. It is calculated by dividing the total cholesterol level by the HDL (high-density lipoprotein) level. HDL is known as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. A lower ratio indicates a lower risk of heart disease, with an optimal ratio being between 3.5 to 1. A higher ratio suggests a greater risk of heart disease.

Non-HDL cholesterol encompasses all cholesterol types that contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, excluding HDL or "good" cholesterol. It includes LDL ("bad" cholesterol) as well as other lipid particles like VLDL and IDL, which carry triglycerides and can transform into LDL. Unlike LDL cholesterol, which requires fasting for accurate measurement, non-HDL cholesterol levels can be assessed without fasting, making it a practical marker for cardiovascular risk. Non-HDL cholesterol accounts for all cholesterol that can clog arteries, not just LDL particles.