Low-density lipoprotein test
Normal Values
A healthy LDL level is one that falls in the optimal or near-optimal range.
- Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL (less than 70 mg/dL for persons with a history of heart disease or those at very high risk for atherosclerotic disease)
- Near Optimal: 100 - 129 mg/dL
- Borderline High: 130 - 159 mg/dL
- High: 160 - 189 mg/dL
- Very High: 190 mg/dL and higher
Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What abnormal results mean
High levels of LDL may be associated with:
- Increased risk of
atherosclerotic heart disease -
Familial hyperlipoproteinemia
-
Malabsorption (inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestinal tract) - Malnutrition
-
Familial combined hyperlipidemia -
Familial dysbetalipoproteinemia -
Familial hypertriglyceridemia
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