Serum HDL cholesterol is used to determine the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a type of cholesterol that is transported by alpha-lipoprotein. HDL is believed to help protect against the risk of developing coronary heart disease and has been shown to be inversely related to coronary heart disease risk.
Patients with low HDL levels should reduce risk factors such as smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: alcoholism, chronic hepatitis, biliary cirrhosis (primary), congenital hyperalphipoproteinemia. Medications: Chlorinated hydrocarbons, cimetidine, cyclophenyl, estrogen (alone or with progesterone), ethyl alcohol (ethanol), lobastatin, niacin, nicotinic acid, phenytoin, terbutaline. Herbs and natural remedies: flaxseed, soy, black chocolate, walnuts
- Decrease: Arteriosclerosis, bacterial infections, cholestasis, coronary heart disease, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypolipoproteinemia, liver disease, metabolic syndrome, obesity (often), polycystic ovarian syndrome Medications: Androgens, beta-adrenergic blockers, intravenous immunoglobulin. Diet rich in carbohydrates
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
