Direct LDL
Test Code
8293
83721
CPT Code is subject to a Medicare Limited Coverage Policy and may require a signed ABN when ordering.
Clinical Significance
Direct LDL - LDL cholesterol is a key factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), while HDL cholesterol has often been observed to have a protective effect. Even within the normal range of total cholesterol concentrations, an increase in LDL cholesterol can produce an associated increased risk for CAD. LDL cholesterol binds to receptor sites on macrophages in blood vessel walls inciting several changes to the blood wall which enhance atherosclerotic plaque development.
Test Resources
Clinical Focus
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)Test Summary
LDL CholesterolTest Details
If a Direct LDL-cholesterol measurement is to be performed along with triglycerides, but not part of a lipid panel, then the patient should be fasting 9-12 hours prior to collection. If the Direct LDL cholesterol is ordered along with a lipid panel, then a fasting sample is not required.
Methodology
Enzymatic
Reference Range(s)
| <20 Years | <110 mg/dL |
| ≥20 Years | <100 mg/dL |
Alternative Name(s)
DLDL,LDL Cholesterol, Direct,Low Density Lipoprotein,LDL Direct,Cholesterol, LDL
Preferred Specimen(s)
1 mL serum
Alternative Specimen(s)
Plasma collected in: Sodium heparin (green-top) tube or lithium heparin (green-top) tube
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Transport Container
Serum separator tube (SST)
Transport Temperature
Room temperature
Specimen Stability
- Room temperature: 6 days
- Refrigerated: 7 days
- Frozen: 31 days
Reject Criteria
Anticoagulants other than heparin
Setup Schedule
1 mL serum
Plasma collected in: Sodium heparin (green-top) tube or lithium heparin (green-top) tube
0.5 mL
Serum separator tube (SST)
Room temperature
Room temperature: 6 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 31 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 31 days
Anticoagulants other than heparin