lipidenpanel

A lipid panel, also known as a lipid profile or cholesterol test, is a blood test that measures the amounts of certain fats, called lipids, in your blood. These lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides. High levels of certain lipids can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke.

The standard lipid panel typically measures four types of lipids: total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries. HDL cholesterol is considered "good" cholesterol as it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood, and high levels are also associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

A healthcare provider may order a lipid panel as part of a routine check-up or if a person has risk factors for heart disease, such as a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity. The results of a lipid panel help assess cardiovascular risk and guide treatment decisions, which may include lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, or medication. Fasting for 9-12 hours before the test is usually required to ensure accurate triglyceride measurements.