Clinical and Interpretive

For a complete lipid profile, please order test code LIPID instead. High density lipoprotein (HDL) is the smallest of the lipoprotein particles and comprises a complex family of lipoprotein particles that exist in a constant state of dynamic flux as the particles interact with other HDL particles and with low density lipoprotein (LDL) particles and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles. HDL has the largest proportion of protein relative to lipid compared to other lipoproteins (>50% protein).

Total cholesterol levels have long been known to be related to coronary heart disease (CHD). HDL cholesterol is also an important tool used to assess an individual’s risk of developing CHD since a strong negative relationship between HDL cholesterol concentration and the incidence of CHD has been reported.

In some individuals, exercise increases the HDL cholesterol level; those with more physical activity have higher HDL cholesterol values.