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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Tests and Exams > Cholesterol Test
      Category : Health Centers > Cholesterol

Cholesterol Test

Alternate Names : Total Cholesterol, Lipid Profile

Overview & Description | Preparation & Expectations | Results and Values

A cholesterol test measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood. It is generally done along with blood tests that measure a person's HDL, also known as the good carrier for cholesterol and LDL, or the so-called bad carrier for cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is used for many body processes.

Who is a candidate for the procedure?

A cholesterol test may be ordered to evaluate a person's risk for various conditions. Adults 20 years or over should be tested every five years for cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. High cholesterol levels increase a person's risk for the following conditions:

  • arteriosclerosis, or narrowing of the arteries
  • coronary heart disease, or CHD
  • early death from heart disease
  • heart attack
  • stroke
  • A cholesterol test may also be ordered to evaluate disorders of the kidney, liver, or thyroid gland.

    How is the test performed?

    A blood sample needs to be taken in order to measure the level of blood cholesterol. The blood is usually drawn from a vein in the forearm or the hand. First, the skin over the vein is cleaned with an antiseptic. Next, a strong rubber tube called a tourniquet is wrapped around the upper arm. This enlarges the veins in the lower arm by restricting blood flow through them. A very thin needle is gently inserted into a vein and the tourniquet is removed. Blood flows from the vein through the needle and is collected in a syringe or vial. The sample is sent to the lab to be analyzed. After the needle is withdrawn, the puncture site is covered for a short time to prevent bleeding.


       

    Next section

       

    Cholesterol Test: Preparation & Expectations

    Author: David T. Moran, MD
    Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 05/23/01



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