LDL-C
The cholesterol carried by LDL particles — the most-discussed lipid risk marker.
What is it
LDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol contained inside low-density lipoprotein particles. LDL has historically been called 'bad cholesterol' because elevated levels have been linked to plaque formation.
Why it's measured
LDL-C has been associated with cardiovascular risk across a large body of research and is a primary target of lipid-lowering therapy in clinical practice.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
< 100 mg/dL
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
Where does your number land?
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Drag to your own LDL Cholesterol (LDL-C) result.
Educational only, not a diagnosis. Ranges vary by laboratory. See which panel includes LDL Cholesterol (LDL-C).
What results may indicate
Elevated
Has been associated with elevated cardiovascular risk in published research.
Lower
Is generally considered favorable.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Part of every standard cholesterol panel.
Related markers
Common questions
LDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol contained inside low-density lipoprotein particles. LDL has historically been called 'bad cholesterol' because elevated levels have been linked to plaque formation.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. LDL Cholesterol (LDL-C) is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
LDL Cholesterol (LDL-C) is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Find the right panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.
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