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In the human body, lipids are composed of fatty acids and other chemicals. Since they constitute components of hormones and cell membranes, offer cushioning, and serve as an energy reserve, lipids are not entirely detrimental to the body; in fact, they are essential for their proper functioning. However, an excess of certain types of lipids can be harmful to one's health, particularly heart health. Our bodies contain various types of lipids, which can be measured through a lipid profile test.
A blood test known as a 'lipid panel' quantifies the levels of certain fat molecules in the blood, known as 'lipids.' The panel usually includes a test for triglycerides as well as four distinct cholesterol measures. A lipid panel is also referred to as a 'Lipid Profile,' 'Cholesterol Panel,' 'Coronary Risk Panel,' or 'Lipid Test'.
A lipid profile test analyzes a blood sample for five distinct lipid types. The lipid profile test includes the following:
The purpose of the Lipid profile blood tests is to identify various medical conditions and monitor a patient's cardiovascular health by assessing their blood cholesterol levels. High cholesterol often presents no overt symptoms, making the lipid profile test essential for screening and early detection of elevated lipid levels that could negatively impact cardiovascular health.
A doctor may recommend a lipid panel for the following reasons:
In general, men and women between the ages of 45 and 65 should get a lipid panel test every two to three years before turning 65, and every year after that. A lipid screen test should also be performed on an individual if they:
A lipid profile test may also be necessary for children since they can also have elevated cholesterol levels. Children's cholesterol levels are influenced by three factors: heredity, diet, and obesity. Children with high cholesterol often have parents with high cholesterol.
A lipid profile test, also known as a lipid panel or cholesterol test, is a blood test that measures the levels of various types of lipids (fats) in your blood. These lipids include cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Here are some procedures involved in conducting a lipid profile test:
A lipid profile test is a blood test where a lab worker wraps an elastic band around the patient's upper arm and instructs them to make a fist to help veins become more visible. Before inserting the needle, the skin around the vein is cleaned to prevent infection. Blood is then drawn with a syringe, and the sample is sent to the lab for analysis. The patients are usually recommended to be on at least 8 hours of fasting before collecting a blood sample. The entire process usually takes about five minutes, and test results typically arrive within 1-2 days.
Sl. No. |
Type of Cholesterol |
Reference Range |
Borderline |
High |
1. |
Total Cholesterol |
<200 mg/dL |
200 - 239 mg/dL |
Above 240 mg/dL |
2. |
Low-Density Cholesterol (LDL) |
<100 mg/dL |
101- 159 mg/dL |
Above 160 mg/dL |
3. |
High-Density Cholesterol (HDL) |
More than 60 mg/d |
40 - 59 mg/dL |
Less than 40 mg/dL |
4. |
Triglycerides |
<150 mg/dL |
151 - 199 mg/dL |
200 - 499 mg/dL |
5. |
VLDL |
<30 mg/dL |
31 - 40 mg/dL |
More than 40 mg/dL |
If a person's cholesterol levels are either too high or too low, they may be at a higher risk of developing heart disease or stroke. The doctor would consider factors such as the patient's weight, level of physical activity, and family history when assessing this risk. If the test results are abnormal, the doctor may also prescribe a blood glucose test to screen for diabetes.
To assess one's risk of developing heart disease, a cholesterol test can measure the levels of cholesterol and lipids in their blood. It is recommended that healthy adults should have their cholesterol levels evaluated at least once every five years. However, individuals with a family history of high cholesterol or those at an elevated risk of developing heart disease should have their cholesterol levels assessed more frequently.
Ans. Lipid profile test charges at CARE Hospitals typically range from Rs 500 to Rs 1500.
Ans. Generally, a lipid profile test fasting period of 10 to 12 hours is advised for a lipid profile test, with drinking water allowed.
Ans. Yes, the lipid profile test can help identify the risk of fatty deposit development in the arteries, which can result in blocked or constricted arteries throughout your body.
Reference:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17176-lipid-panel
https://www.verywellhealth.com/getting-your-cholesterol-checked-697547
https://www.healthline.com/health/cholesterol-test#whats-measured