Serum LDL cholesterol measurement is used to determine the risk of cardiovascular disease.
More information
Very-low-density Lipoproteins (VLDL) transport the body's cholesterol and triglycerides from the liver to the rest of the body's organs and are deposited in peripheral tissues. As VLDLs degrade, residues of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) remain in the bloodstream. LDL is oxidative and atherogenic and thus is associated with an increased risk of developing atherosclerotic coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. Beta-lipoproteins, or LDLs, are moderately high in protein and cholesterol but low in triglycerides. Results from randomized clinical trials have shown to benefit from lowering LDL cholesterol in the development of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease. Decreased or absent LDL (abialalipoproteinemia) may be the cause of polyneuropathy.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Acute myocardial infarction, anorexia nervosa, coronary heart disease, Cushing's disease, diabetes mellitus, high cholesterol and saturated fat diet, dysphoriaemia, eclampsia, liver disease, hyperlipoproteinemia syndrome, obesity (often), porphyria, pregnancy, kidney failure. High levels are associated with an increased risk for atherosclerotic coronary heart disease. Medications: Androgens, aspirin, catecholamines, diuretics, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines, sulfonamides
- Decrease: Arteriosclerosis, Avithalipoproteinemia, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Hyperlipoproteinemia Type I, Hyperthyroidism, Hypoalbuminemia, Inflammatory Disease, Malabsorption, Malignancy, Multiple Sclerosis Medications: Aspirin, cholestyramine, clofibrate, cortisone, estrogen, neomycin, nicotinic acid, probucol, tamoxifen, thyroxine. Herbal and natural remedies: Garlic, soy, herbs containing guar gum, etc. Ayurvedic herb amla (Phyllanthus emblica, Indian gooseberry) appears to lower total and LDL cholesterol
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
