Lipid profile in Barranquilla, Colombia

What does a lipid panel include?

It measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol and triglycerides. Some labs also report non-HDL cholesterol and VLDL. Together they show the risk of fat building up in the arteries.

Do I need to fast?

Traditionally, 9 to 12 hours of fasting is required, and it is still the most common practice, especially if triglycerides were high before. Some doctors now accept non-fasting samples. Follow your doctor's or lab's instructions.

What else can affect the result?

Alcohol and very fatty meals the day before raise triglycerides. An acute illness, recent surgery or pregnancy can also change the values, so it may be worth repeating the test at another time.

How often should it be repeated if I am on treatment?

Usually 4 to 12 weeks after starting or changing a cholesterol medication, then every 3 to 12 months depending on control.

Find where to get a lipid panel

On MedicosDoc you can find clinical laboratories that perform lipid panels. Compare options and book your appointment.