Requires 12 hour Fasting prior to test.

The Lipid (Fats)  Panel With LDL Direct blood test measures your blood fats. The lipid profile is a group of tests that are often ordered together to determine risk of heart disease. They are tests that have been shown to be good indicators of whether someone is likely to have a heart attack or stroke caused by blockage of blood vessels or hardening of the arteries (atherosclerois).

The lipid profile with LDL Direct includes:

• Total cholesterol
• High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) — often called good cholesterol
• Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) —often called bad cholesterol
• Very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL)
• Triglycerides
• LDL Direct

Cholesterol is derived from the diet, formed in the liver and found in all cells of the body. It is used to form hormones, antibodies and bile salts and also protects cell membranes. It is also used to evaluate risk for atherosclerosis. HDL cholesterol is called the “good” cholesterol and LDL is the “bad” fraction that sticks to the linings of arteries. Increases are seen in atherosclerosis, hypothyroidism, and stomach problems affecting digestion of fats and in high fat diets. Decreases are seen some liver disorders, hyperthyroidism and severely fat restricted diets.

Triglycerides are circulating fats that are made in the liver. Like glucose, they can be a source of energy and their amount increases when glucose cannot be used properly. Increases are seen in diabetes, atherosclerosis, hypothyroid conditions, high fat diet and alcoholism. Decreases are seen in hyperthyroidism, autoimmune disorders, vegetarian diet and deficiency of stomach acid.