Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels in California

A cholesterol and lipid panel is a blood test that measures fats in your blood. It is ordered to estimate cardiovascular risk and to monitor the effect of diet, lifestyle, or medication.

What it measures

Total cholesterol — The combined amount of all cholesterol in your blood.
LDL cholesterol — Often called 'bad' cholesterol; higher levels can build up in arteries.
HDL cholesterol — Often called 'good' cholesterol; it helps carry cholesterol away from arteries.
Triglycerides — A type of blood fat linked to diet, weight, and blood sugar.
Non-HDL cholesterol — Total cholesterol minus HDL; another way to gauge artery-clogging risk.

Who it is for

A primary care clinician, cardiologist, or other healthcare provider typically orders this panel during a routine checkup or to monitor heart health.

Preparation

Fasting for 9 to 12 hours is often requested, especially if triglycerides are being measured, but some panels do not require fasting. Follow your clinician's instructions about timing and any medications.

Results and what they mean

Results are reported as numbers in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) alongside a reference range. Your clinician interprets them with your age, blood pressure, smoking status, and other factors. This is general information, not medical advice; discuss your results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Requesting the Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels in California

Order online, choose a certified collection site in California, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. Access across Pacific is uneven, so confirming a site ahead of time is worthwhile.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast?

It depends on the panel and your clinician's instructions. Many lipid tests are done after a 9- to 12-hour fast, but some do not require fasting.

How long until I get results?

Typical turnaround is 1 to 3 business days, though this can vary by lab.

Can I eat before the test?

If fasting is required, avoid food and drinks other than water. If not, follow the specific instructions you were given.

What if my numbers are outside the reference range?

Out-of-range results do not automatically mean disease. Your clinician will consider the full picture and decide whether further testing or follow-up is needed.

Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels by city in California

All testing in California → Full Cholesterol & Lipid Test Panels guide →