|
|
HDL
Alternate Names : High-Density Lipoprotein
Definition This is a test that measures the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in serum.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Why is the Test Performed?
This test is used in an evaluation of coronary risk factors.
Lipoproteins are proteins in the blood that transport cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids to various tissues. The main function of HDL appears to be carrying excess cholesterol (and probably other phospholipids and proteins) to the liver for "re-packaging" or excretion in the bile.
Higher levels of HDL seem to be protective against coronary artery disease, thus HDL is sometimes referred to as "good" cholesterol. The laboratory test for HDL actually measures the cholesterol part of HDL, not the actual concentration of HDL in the blood.
This is also true of the tests for low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL). The total cholesterol level is the sum of LDL, HDL, and VLDL cholesterol.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Why is the Test Performed?
• How is the Test Performed?
• How to Prepare for the Test?
• How will the Test Feel?
• Normal Values
• What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• Special Considerations
• Risks
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Angina - Stable
• Atherosclerosis
• Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia
• Type 2 Diabetes
Tests & Exams
• Blood Pressure
• LDL
• Triglyceride Level
• Venipuncture
• VLDL
Other Topics
• Adolescent Test or Procedure Preparation
• Bile
• Bleeding
• Cholesterol
• Fainting
• Fat
• Infant Test/Procedure Preparation
• Preschooler Test/Procedure Preparation
• Protein in Diet
• School Age Test/Procedure Preparation
• Toddler Test/Procedure Preparation
Review Date : 8/23/2002
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. editorial (8/23/02). Previous review: Jeffrey Heit, M.D., Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (10/27/01).
|
|
