LDL cholesterol

Understanding the marker

LDL particles carry cholesterol to tissues. The amount of LDL cholesterol is used when assessing long-term cardiovascular risk and any need for treatment.

LDL cholesterol is an established causal cardiovascular risk factor. The appropriate treatment target depends on overall risk and existing disease, not only the laboratory reference interval. Very high results may warrant assessment for familial hypercholesterolaemia. Use the laboratory-reported assay and result.

What does high LDL cholesterol mean?

A high LDL contributes to cardiovascular risk over time. A clinician assesses it with family history, other blood fats and other risk factors to set an appropriate target. The result alone does not establish an inherited condition.

What does low LDL cholesterol mean?

Lower LDL is often an intended effect of cholesterol treatment. Its meaning depends on any treatment, the other blood fats and health history. A laboratory interval is not the same as a personal treatment target.