Reference value for lipids and its Interpretations
Lipids
CHOLESTEROL - High
density lipoproteins (HDL) is desired as opposed to the low density lipoproteins (LDL),
two types of cholesterol. Elevated cholesterol has been seen in
arthrosclerosis, diabetes, hypothyroidism,pancreatic
dysfunction and pregnancy.
Low levels
are seen in depression, malnutrition,
liver insufficiency, malignancies, anemia, Hyperthyroidism and infection.
Normal Adult Range: Less than 200 mg/dl
Borderline : 200 - 239 mg/dl
High Greater than 240 mg/dl
Interpretation
Cholesterol is an important part of our diet. It is
essential to the proper function and structure of cell membranes. Bile acids
are derived from cholesterol. The liver, adrenals, sex glands, intestines, and
even the placenta, manufacture cholesterol. Cholesterol is best used as an
indicator of other metabolic dysfunction. Should not be considered a disease by
itself unless extreme, which indicates familial cause. Check triglycerides and
HDL/LDL. Cholesterol is increased with endocrine hypo function. Low levels are
not necessarily desirable as it is associated with increased incidence of
malignancy and mental illness
LDL (Low
Density Lipoprotein)
studies correlate the association between
high levels of LDL and arterial arthrosclerosis
Normal Adult Range: 80 - 185 mg/dl
Optimal Adult Reading: 85 mg/dl
Optimal Adult Reading: 85 mg/dl
HDL (High
Density Lipoprotein)
A high level of HDL is an indication of a
healthy metabolic system if there is no sign of liver disease or
intoxication.
Normal Adult Range: 40 - 65 mg/dl
Interpretation
HDL is comprised of phospholipids and
one or two apolipoproteins. It plays a role in the metabolism of other
lipoproteins and in the transport of cholesterol to the liver. The HDL is a class of
lipoproteins produced by the liver and intestines. A combination of increased
triglyceride, cholesterol, and LDL with reduced HDL is indicative of atherogenic
tendencies. A diet high in sugar may decrease HDL while increasing total serum
cholesterol.
TRIGLYCERIDES
Increased levels may be present in atherosclerosis, hypothyroidism,
liver disease, pancreatitis, myocardial infarction, metabolic disorders,
toxemia, and nephrotic syndrome. Decreased levels may be present in
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, brain infarction, hyperthyroidism,
malnutrition, and malabsorption.
Normal Adult Range: < 165 mg/dl
Optimal Adult Reading: 100
Optimal Adult Reading: 100
CHOLESTEROL
/ LDL RATIO
Normal Adult Range: 1 - 6
Optimal Adult Reading: 3.5
Optimal Adult Reading: 3.5