Why it is performed
- Estimate heart attack and stroke risk as part of a global assessment.
- Monitor response to diet, exercise and lipid-lowering treatment.
- Detect very high triglycerides, which can increase pancreatitis risk.
How it is performed
A blood sample is analysed. LDL may be measured directly or calculated; the report should state the method and limitations.
Preparation
- Confirm whether fasting is required.
- Avoid an unusually fatty meal and heavy alcohol the day before if instructed.
- Report pregnancy, acute illness and medication because they alter the profile.
How Askabide processes it
At Askabide
Available cholesterol and triglyceride assays may be processed by dry chemistry. Interpretation is not limited to high/low flags: the LDL target depends on individual risk.
The main analytical phase is performed in the centre’s laboratory, subject to availability and validation.
Results and indicative intervals
Intervals vary by method, analyser, reagent, units, age, sex, pregnancy, menstrual-cycle phase and reference population. The valid interval is the one printed on the laboratory report.
| Parameter or result | Indicative reference | How it is interpreted |
|---|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | Deseable <200 mg/dL | Should not be used alone to decide treatment. |
| HDL | Habitualmente >40 mg/dL (H) / >50 mg/dL (M) | A high HDL does not automatically cancel other risks. |
| LDL | Objetivo según riesgo; frecuentemente <116, <100, <70 o <55 mg/dL | Targets become stricter as cardiovascular risk increases. |
| Triglycerides | <150 mg/dL | ≥500 mg/dL carries relevant pancreatitis risk and needs assessment. |
| Non-HDL cholesterol | Objetivo según riesgo | Calculated as total cholesterol minus HDL and reflects atherogenic particles. |
Important limitations
- Targets depend on cardiovascular history, diabetes, kidney disease and global risk.
- Calculated LDL may be unreliable when triglycerides are very high.
- Acute infection or illness may temporarily distort the profile.