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Test Code SDLDL Small Dense Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Serum


Specimen Required


Patient Preparation: Fasting overnight (8-12 hours) required

Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)

Collection Container/Tube:

Preferred: Serum gel

Acceptable: Red top

Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial

Specimen Volume: 1 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.

2. Send frozen.


Useful For

Aiding in risk management of lipoprotein disorders associated with cardiovascular disease when used in conjunction with other lipid measurements and clinical evaluation

Method Name

Enzymatic Colorimetric

Reporting Name

Small Dense LDL Cholesterol, S

Specimen Type

Serum

Specimen Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time Special Container
Serum Frozen (preferred) 30 days
  Refrigerated  72 hours
  Ambient  8 hours

Reject Due To

Gross hemolysis Reject
Gross lipemia Reject
Gross icterus Reject

Clinical Information

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) has long been known to be causally associated with atherosclerotic plaque development and progression and is the main target of lowering cardiovascular disease risk. Subfractions of LDL, particularly the concentration of small dense LDL-C, have been shown to also be associated with increased risk for coronary heart disease (CHD). It is thought that the smaller particles are especially pro-atherogenic given their higher probability to transverse the arterial wall and a longer circulating half-life, likely from a lower binding affinity to the LDL receptor. Several epidemiological and pathological studies have reported an association between the concentration of small dense LDL-C and CHD. Results should be used in conjunction with the patient's medical history and other laboratory and clinical results.

Reference Values

≥18 years: <50 mg/dL

Reference values have not been established for patients who are younger than 18 years.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Friday

Report Available

1 to 3 days

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

Test Classification

This test has been cleared, approved, or is exempt by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.

CPT Code Information

83722

Forms

If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Cardiovascular Test Request (T724) with the specimen.