A complete cholesterol test, also known as a lipid profile, is a group of blood tests that measure amounts of different types of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. These blood tests will usually be taken after a period of fasting that lasts nine to 12 hours. Some cholesterol is considered good, while other cholesterol is considered bad. Different cholesterol tests can determine the amount of each type of cholesterol in the blood.
Total Cholesterol
A total cholesterol test measures the amount of good and bad cholesterol in the blood including high density lipoproteins, low density lipoproteins and triglyceride levels. A desirable total cholesterol value is under 200 mg/dL. Borderline high cholesterol levels are between 200 and 239 mg/dL and high risk total cholesterol levels are 240 mg/dL and higher, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. As the value of a total cholesterol test increases, so does the chance of developing heart disease.
HDL Test
An HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, test measures the amount of cholesterol in the blood that is referred to as good cholesterol. HDL is called good cholesterol because it helps carry away LDL, or bad, cholesterol and keeps the arteries from becoming blocked, which allows blood to flow freely. Higher numbers are a preferred result of an HDL test. Desirable levels of HDL cholesterol are 60 mg/dL or above, according to MedlinePlus. As the number of HDL cholesterol in the blood increases, the chance of developing heart disease due to atherosclerosis decreases.
LDL Test
An LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, test measures the amount of cholesterol in the blood that is referred to as bad cholesterol. Too much LDL cholesterol causes the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, which causes blockages that impede blood flow. Low levels of LDL cholesterol are desirable. Optimal LDL cholesterol is considered less than 100 mg/dL and near optimal is 120 to 139 mg/dL, according to MedlinePlus. A value greater than 129 mg/dL is considered high. An increased amount of LDL cholesterol in the blood contributes to the development of heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of fat that is formed from the consumption of excess calories. Triglycerides are formed in the blood and stored in fat cells. Triglyceride levels are often tested as part of a lipid profile. Desirable triglyceride levels are below 150 mg/dL. Borderline high triglyceride levels are defined as 150 mg/dL to 199 mg/dL, according to the American Association for Clinical Chemistry. Anything above 199 mg/dL is considered a high triglyceride level. High triglyceride levels contribute to the development of heart disease.
