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Test Code N.LDLD LDL CHOLESTEROL, DIRECT

Additional Codes

LDLD

Methodology

Automated Chemistry Analyzer

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Serum or Plasma 
Container/Tube: SST or Lithium Heparin 

Acceptable: Red top 
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum 0.5) 
Collection Instructions:  

  1. Allow specimen to clot completely if a serum tube (SST) was used. 
  2. Separate serum (SST) or plasma (Lithium Heparin) from cells within 24 hours and transport refrigerated. If red top tube is collected, separate serum from cells within 2 hours and place in separate plastic tube. 
  3. Properly label tube with patient's name, DOB, requisition number and type of tube, i.e. LiHep or NaHep etc. 

Specimen Rejection

1. Gross hemolysis

2. Exceeds stabilty requirements

3. Unlabeled/mislabeled specimen

Maximum Laboratory Time

24 - 48 hours

Specimen Transport/Stability

Refrigerated: 3 hours on gel, 5 days poured off

Test Classification and CPT Coding

83721

Day(s) Test Set Up

Daily

Reference Ranges

LDL Cholesterol, Direct                      mg/dL 
Optimal                      < 100
Near/Above Optimal                    100 - 129
Borderline High                    130 - 159
High                    160 - 189
Very High                      > 190

The method of direct measurement of LDL cholesterol is validated with mg/dL. Direct LDL results with triglycerides of greater than 1290 mg/dL should be interpreted with caution.