lipid profile
CardiologyBlood sampleEst. 24hFasting
Lipid Profile
A Lipid Profile checks cholesterol and triglyceride markers used in heart-risk assessment, including HDL, LDL, non-HDL, VLDL, and cholesterol/HDL ratio.
Sample
Blood
Results
Est. 24h
Prep
Fasting
Follow-up
Optional add-on
What this test detects
Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides
Enzymatic colorimetry · serum
Quantitative
LDL, VLDL, non-HDL cholesterol, and cholesterol/HDL ratio
Calculated from lipid results
Quantitative
Cardiac risk lipid pattern
Lipid panel interpretation by clinician
For heart-risk assessment and monitoring
When to get this test
Overall heart disease risk
Combines several lipid values to estimate cardiovascular risk.
Routine health screening
Commonly included in general check-ups for adults.
Monitoring cholesterol care
Tracks how diet, exercise, and medicines affect your lipid levels over time.
How to prepare
01
Fast for 10 to 12 hours before the blood draw when possible; water is allowed.
02
Non-fasting collection may be accepted if requested by your doctor or preferred by the patient, but triglyceride-related values may need repeat fasting testing if very high.
03
Tell the clinic if you are taking cholesterol medicines, supplements, or other medicines your doctor is monitoring.
Common questions
What is included in a lipid profile?
It includes total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, non-HDL, LDL, VLDL, and cholesterol/HDL ratio.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting for 10 to 12 hours is recommended, with water allowed. Your doctor may still request or accept a non-fasting lipid profile depending on your situation.
What is this test used for?
It is commonly used as part of cardiac risk assessment and to help guide cholesterol, diet, lifestyle, or medication decisions with your clinician.
What if I cannot fast?
The test may still be collected non-fasting if requested or preferred, but very high triglycerides may require repeat testing with a fasting sample.
How often should adults check cholesterol?
Many adults start periodic cholesterol screening from age 20. Your doctor may recommend more frequent testing if you have risk factors or are monitoring treatment.