Lipid Panel, Standard

The Lipid Panel, Standard measures serum cholesterol, and triglyceride (TG) levels; it includes evaluation of the cholesterol/HDL-C ratio (calculated), HDL-C, LDL-C (calculated), non-HDL-C (calculated), total cholesterol, and TG. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in evaluating cardiovascular risk and the likelihood of suffering an ischemic event. It is also helpful for preventing and managing atherosclerotic disease and diagnosing metabolic syndrome [1].

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. The risk of developing CVD and having an ischemic event is significantly increased in individuals with high LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and TG levels [2,3]. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that Americans aged 20 and above have their lipid levels tested every 4 to 6 years. Children should have their cholesterol tested for the first time between ages 9 and 11 and again between ages 17 and 21. Testing should start earlier if there is a family history of high cholesterol [4].

The AHA recommends repeat measurement of LDL-C within 4 to 12 weeks of starting or changing lipid-lowering therapy to assess response and adherence and then every 3 to 12 months as appropriate [4].

Treatment with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for acetaminophen overdose may generate a falsely low result for cholesterol. In addition, venipuncture immediately after or during the administration of the painkiller metamizole (dipyrone) may also lead to falsely low results for cholesterol.