Non-HDL, or "bad," cholesterols are common laboratory values used by clinicians to determine a patient's risk of heart disease. Lower non-HDL cholesterol levels are desirable and associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Low-density lipoproteins and triglycerides are examples of non-HDL cholesterol. Researchers believe that non-HDL cholesterol is responsible for the formation of plaques and clots in the arteries that can lead to heart disease. Although non-HDL cholesterol may be directly reported from a blood sample, it is possible to estimate the non-HDL value from other cholesterol and lipid values when the non-HDL level is not directly given.
Preparation
Step 1
Fast for nine to 12 hours prior to clinic appointment. It is appropriate to drink water during this time.
Step 2
Have blood drawn in the clinic during your appointment to determine your cholesterol and lipid levels.
Step 3
Wait for your results. You could wait from a few hours to a few days for the blood sample to be analyzed and the results of the lipid panel reported.
Analysis When Non-HDL Level Is Included in Lipid Panel
Step 1
Obtain results from the lipid panel. The report may contain values for some, or all of the following: TC, or total cholesterol; LDL, low-density lipoproteins; HDL, or high-density lipoproteins; triglycerides; non-HDL; and VLDL, very low-density lipoproteins.
Step 2
Determine the results. Use the non-HDL value to determine HDL or "good" cholesterol levels with the equation HDL equals total cholesterol minus non-HDL, or HDL = TC - non-HDL. HDL values below 40 mg/dL are considered low and places you at increased risk for heart disease.
Step 3
Talk to your doctor. Discuss the results of the lipid panel with a physician to determine if treatment or lifestyle modifications are necessary.
Calculate Non-HDL When Level Is Not Included in Lipid Panel
Step 1
Use other lipid values to find non-HDL levels. From the equation of total cholesterol, or TC = HDL + LDL + VLDL, it can be determined that non-HDL = LDL + VLDL.
Step 2
Use the term "triglycerides divided by 5" as an estimate of VLDL in the above equation when VLDL values are not directly available.
Step 3
Determine HDL levels and the risk of heart disease as shown earlier once non-HDL levels have been calculated.
Tips and Warnings
- Lipid panels are often done during inpatient stays or routine clinic visits. They should be repeated at least yearly and may require more routine monitoring in certain circumstances.
- Certain medications and health conditions can affect lipid levels within the body. Always make your physician aware of any known health conditions and medications you are taking.
Things You'll Need
- Clinic appointment
- List of current medications and health conditions
