Heart system

Non-HDL Cholesterol

Non-HDL

Total cholesterol minus HDL — captures all atherogenic cholesterol in one number.

What is it

Non-HDL Cholesterol — in plain English.

Non-HDL cholesterol is calculated by subtracting HDL from total cholesterol. It represents cholesterol carried by all atherogenic particles (LDL, VLDL, IDL, Lp(a)).

Why it's measured

What Non-HDL can reveal.

Non-HDL has been associated with cardiovascular risk in published research and is sometimes used as a simpler proxy for ApoB when ApoB is unavailable.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

< 130 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.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower Non-HDL — at a high level.

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

When Non-HDL is typically run.

Calculated from standard cholesterol panel components — often reported automatically.

Related markers

Often measured alongside Non-HDL.

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)Heart systemApolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I)Heart systemApoB : ApoA-I RatioHeart systemLipoprotein (a) — Lp(a)Heart systemNMR LDL Particle NumberHeart systemNMR Lipoprotein Particle SizeHeart system

Measured in

Non-HDL is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel →
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
← Back to all biomarkers

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.