Lipoprotein Fractionation Ultracentrifugation

Catalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.

What this laboratory test evaluates

DetailsLipoprotein Fractionation Ultracentrifugation – This panel measures serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and provides a calculated concentration of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in evaluating cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and the likelihood of an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease and diagnosis of metabolic syndrome [1].

CVD is the leading cause of death in the United States. Individuals with high LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels are at elevated risk for developing CVD and having an ischemic event [2,3]. The American Heart Association recommends that Americans aged 20 and above have their lipid levels tested every 4 to 6 years. Children should have their cholesterol tested for the first time between ages 9 and 11 and again between ages 17 and 21. Testing should start earlier if there is a family history of high cholesterol [4].

Treatment with N-acetyl cysteine for acetaminophen overdose may generate a falsely low result for cholesterol [5]. Venipuncture immediately after or during administration of the painkiller metamizole (dipyrone) may also lead to falsely low results for cholesterol [6].

Note: Any or all individual tests from a panel can be ordered separately.

The results of this test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and family history as well as physical examination findings.

References
1. Stone NJ, et al. Circulation. 2014;129(25 Suppl 2):S1-S45.
2. CDC. Heart disease facts. Accessed January 3, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm
3. Arbel Y, et al. Card Diabetol. 2016;15:11.
4. Grundy SM, et al. Circulation. 2019;139(25):e1082-e1143.
5. Beckman Coulter AU analyzers. Instructions for use. Beckman Coulter Inc; 2015. Accessed January 19, 2023. https://www.beckmancoulter.com/wsrportal/techdocs?docname=/cis/BAOSR6X16//EN_CHOLOSRGeneralChemistry.pdf6. Gascon N, et al. Clin Chem. 1993;39(6):1033-1036.

What type of sample is required for this test?4 mL serum

Test ResourcesFor more information, please consult your healthcare provider.

Additional test information

Lipoprotein Fractionation Ultracentrifugation – This panel measures serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and provides a calculated concentration of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in evaluating cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and the likelihood of an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease and diagnosis of metabolic syndrome.

Collection and processing

• Sample type: Serum
• Fasting: No
• Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected

How Sunridge uses laboratory information

Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Before requesting this test

Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.