TESTING > LDL DIRECT
LDL DIRECT
- LDL carries cholesterol through the bloodstream to help the body build cell walls and produce steroid hormones. However, too much LDL sticks to blood vessel walls and blocks the flow of blood. This can lead to heart attacks and strokes. This is the reason why LDL cholesterol is called the “bad” cholesterol.
- The LDL direct test, unlike what is reported in the chemistry profile, is not a calculation but rather a direct test for the best accurate evaluation and monitoring of this risk factor. It is also used for monitoring lipid (fat) - lowering lifestyle changes and therapy.
- Normal Range is less than 130 mg/dL; 130-159 moderate/high risk, over 160 high risk.
- Values obtained with different assay methods should not be used interchangeably.