A screening and follow-up blood test that measures lipid (fat) levels; used to assess cardiovascular disease risk and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
Indication
- Cardiovascular risk screening in adults over 20 years of age (every 5 years)
- Family history of early cardiovascular disease
- Coexisting diabetes, hypertension, or obesity
- Follow-up of known coronary artery disease or stroke
- Monitoring response to statin or other lipid-lowering therapy
- Investigation of hypertriglyceridemia in pancreatitis etiology
- Metabolic assessment in thyroid, kidney, or liver disease
Preparation
- Fasting for 9-12 hours is recommended for accurate triglyceride and LDL measurement
- Avoid intense exercise and excessive fatty meals for 24 hours before the test
- Water is allowed; coffee, tea, and sugary beverages should be avoided
- The test should be postponed if there is an acute illness or infection
- Inform the physician about medications used (especially hormones, statins)
How it's performed
- Blood is drawn from a vein on the upper arm or hand using a single-use needle
- Approximately 3-5 mL of blood is collected into the appropriate tube
- The sample is centrifuged in the laboratory to separate the serum
- Measurement is performed enzymatically on an automated biochemistry analyzer
- Total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides are measured directly; LDL is calculated using the Friedewald formula
- Results are usually reported on the same day
Post-procedure
- Target values (ATP III): LDL <100 mg/dL (<70 in high risk), HDL men >40 / women >50, triglycerides <150 mg/dL
- Total cholesterol target <200 mg/dL
- Results are interpreted by the physician together with the individual risk score
- Diet, exercise, and medication if needed are planned for abnormal values
- If treatment is started, follow-up is recommended in 6-12 weeks
Risks
- Temporary bruising or tenderness at the blood draw site
- Rare dizziness or fainting sensation (vasovagal)
- Very rare local infection (minimized with sterile technique)
- Triglyceride values may be falsely elevated if fasting is not respected
FAQ
Can a lipid panel be done without fasting?
Total and HDL cholesterol are reliable in non-fasting state; however, fasting for 9-12 hours is recommended for triglycerides and calculated LDL.
What do the results mean?
Elevated LDL ('bad') and low HDL ('good') increase cardiovascular risk. Interpretation is made by the physician based on individual risk factors.
How often should it be repeated?
Every 5 years if there are no risk factors; every 6-12 months if risk factors or treatment are present.
If the result is high, do I need to start medication?
For mild elevations, diet and lifestyle changes are tried first; the decision to start medication is made by the physician based on the individual risk score.
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