Lipid Profile Test

Lipids are fats and fatty substances used as a source of energy by the body. A lipid profile means a combination of blood tests that helps measure the value of different types of lipids in the bloodstream. Cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) are the different types of lipids present in the body.

The lipid profile test measures Total Cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum HDL, serum LDL and serum VLDL. The test also measures the total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio. The lipid profile result will include the value of these parameters.

Cholesterol is a form of fat the body needs. It helps to make cells’ outer membranes stable. Higher than normal levels of total cholesterol are linked with the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This high reading is not equivalent to a positive lipid profile test. There cannot be a negative lipid profile test result either.

Triglycerides are another form of fat that is measurable along with cholesterol. High levels of triglycerides are a known risk factor for diabetes, high blood pressure and heart diseases. Triglycerides have the abbreviation as TGC in some lipid profile results.

There are no signs or symptoms for an abnormal cholesterol level. Certain diseases like hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, hypothyroidism and HIV/AIDS can cause unhealthy cholesterol levels. These patients are at a higher risk of developing clots in the arteries. These clots in the arteries can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

There are certain risk factors that may contribute to abnormally high levels of blood cholesterol levels. Factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, poor diet, alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking can lead to high serum cholesterol levels.

The lipid profile test results help to detect abnormal levels of blood cholesterol and triglycerides. This detection can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Sometimes a lipid profile test prescription is a part of a routine health check-up. This check-up might help the physician to suggest any lifestyle changes or prescribe medicines when necessary.

High blood cholesterol levels constitute a risk factor for atherosclerosis (blocks in arteries). As per studies, high cholesterol levels are seen in 25 - 30% of the Indian urban population. Even in rural areas, dyslipidaemia is seen in 15 - 20% of the population. Due to genetic factors, a lack of physical activity and suboptimal dietary habits, high LDL cholesterol, high serum triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol are common issues among the Indian population. A lipid profile test is used in the diagnosis of dyslipidaemia and associated conditions.

The results of a lipid profile test are derived from the analysis of a blood sample. The entire cholesterol analysis in the lipid profile test is made from a single blood sample.

Heart disease, stroke, pancreatitis, hypertension, obesity

The lipid profile test measures the levels of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides.

Lipid profile test may be prescribed for:-

• Routine checkup
• People at risk of heart disease, blockage etc.
• Fatty Liver
• Obesity
• People with chronic inflammatory disorders

The lipid profile test is prescribed for patients with a high risk of cardiac diseases or lifestyle disorders. A lipid profile test can also be a part of a routine body check-up.

There are no direct signs or symptoms of dyslipidaemia. Abnormal lipid values may be present if a person has the following conditions:

• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Chronic kidney disease
• Hypothyroidism
• HIV/AIDS

The lipid profile test is also a requirement for people who are:

• Overweight
• Alcoholic
• Smokers
• On certain medications that can derange your lipid profile

The lipid profile test is prescribed by the consulting physician for some of these conditions.

Following a diagnosis, the treatment and lifestyle changes for dyslipidaemia are initiated by an MD physician or clinical cardiologist or clinical nutritionist.

The lipid profile test may be prescribed every six months to monitor and regulate the dosage. The results of the lipid profile test may help your doctor decide the treatment protocol. Based on the result, the doctor may continue the same treatment or modify the dosage of medicines. The lipid profile test is applicable for both genders.

A lipid profile test is part of a routine health check-up. The test may need repetition every six months when a person is on medication for dyslipidaemia to evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatment. The lipid profile test may need repetition every six months in people with other diseases like diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney disease.

The test can be annual only if not on any medication or if the previous lipid profile test results were normal. Mere confirmation of diagnosis cannot be qualified as a positive lipid profile test.

Before the Test

Before undergoing the lipid profile test, it is important to fast for 12 hours beforehand. This fasting period is crucial for achieving accurate test results. Therefore, it is wise to seek advice from a doctor before taking any test to determine if there are any specific restrictions in place.

During the Test

A phlebotomist will draw blood from a vein in your arm for the sample. Your experience will likely involve:

• Disinfecting the site where the needle will be inserted with an antiseptic.
• Wrapping a tourniquet around your arm to make the veins more visible.
• Inserting a disposable needle into the vein to collect the blood. This process may cause minor discomfort from the needle and could take a few seconds.
• Placing the sample in a small container or test tube labelled with your test information.

After the Test

After the Blood is Collected:

• Applying a bandage to the site where the needle was inserted to prevent any bleeding.
• You may feel slightly sore or lightheaded, which is normal and nothing to be concerned about. You may be advised to rest for a few minutes.
• Contact your doctor if you experience any bleeding, discomfort, or rashes at the puncture site.

The lipid profile test includes the following-

• Total Cholesterol
• LDL Cholesterol direct
• HDL Cholesterol
• LDL/HDL ratio
• Non HDL Cholesterol
• TC/HDL Cholesterol Ratio
• Triglycerides
• Serum VLDL cholesterol

The values are the same for males and females.

The normal values, parameters, and reference ranges of the test may vary from lab to lab. Please refer to the ranges mentioned in the report and consult a doctor to understand the interpretation of lab reports.

The four main components of the lipid profile test are Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL and LDL.

The Total Cholesterol to HDL ratio is not more important than the actual values. If the lipid profile report has a higher than usual reading for Total Cholesterol, it is diagnostic of dyslipidaemia. Dyslipidaemia, if left unchecked, increases the chances of atherosclerosis and subsequent heart attacks.

A low reading of HDL in a lipid profile test indicates lack of activity, sedentary lifestyle and deficiency of food with good fats.

A high reading of LDL in a lipid profile test result is suggestive of increased consumption of oily and fatty foods or poor processing of such unsaturated fatty acids by the body.

Dyslipidaemia and the other parameters are treatable with a combination of medicine, diet, exercise and lifestyle changes.

The cost of a Lipid Profile Test varies depending on the city and the lab. In general, a Lipid Profile test price ranges between INR 349 and INR 879. Here is a breakdown of the average cost of a Lipid Profile test in some major cities in India:

The lipid profile test is a common blood test with a very low risk of complications. Seek medical advice right away if you notice-

• Excessive bleeding following the needle insertion.
• Discomfort or swelling at the insertion site.

Limitations of the test

• Negative impact on the outcome of the test due to equipment or human errors.
• Wrong understanding of the markers.