Cholesterol

Clinical use

Fasting makes little difference if myocardial infarct result ok within 12 hours then falls to return to pre infarct levels by 3 months repeat 3 weeks after statin dose change.

Cardiac risk factor.

Background

The average western diet provides about 1g of cholesterol per day. A further 2g is synthesized by the body, predominantly in the liver. This synthesis is increased when the supply of carbohydrates, amino acids and fatty acids exceed dietary needs.

Elevated levels of plasma cholesterol are recognized as a risk factor in atherosclerotic disease. Reducing plasma cholesterol is therefore seen as a means of reducing the incidence of atherosclerosis in the population.

Reference ranges

No reference range is quoted. Doctors interpret cholesterol levels as part of algorithm for assessment of CHD.

Associated diseases

Higher than normal levels:

• Biliary cirrhosis
• Familial hyperlipidemias
• High-cholesterol diet
• Hypothyroidism
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Uncontrolled diabetes

Lower than normal levels:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Liver disease
• Malabsorption
• Malnutrition
• Ernicious anemia
• Sepsis

Specimen requirements

Sample type:

• Serum or Lithium Heparin Plasma.

Sample identification:

• Three patient identifiers from
  • Name
  • D.O.B.
  • Address
  • N.H.S. number
  • Unit Number
  should match on the specimen and request form. This check may be performed prior to centrifugation by the Central Sort department.

Turnaround time

2 hours