Total serum cholesterol is measured to determine the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
More information
Cholesterol is synthesized in the liver from dietary fats. Its functions include the production of bile salts and several steroid hormones and as a structural component of cell membranes. Cholesterol is carried in the blood by low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad cholesterol”) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good cholesterol”). Much scientific research has focused on the role of cholesterol in heart disease. High levels of cholesterol in the blood (hypercholesterolemia), especially in combination with low levels of HDL, have been found to increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis and heart disease. Measuring total cholesterol allows for assessing this risk, helps determine treatment options, and is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Atherosclerosis, biliary cirrhosis, cardiovascular disease, hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypothyroidism, liver disease/biliary obstruction, nephrotic syndrome, obesity, pancreatic dysfunction, preeclampsia, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, xanthomatosis. Medications: Antipsychotics, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, disulfiram, lansoprazole, levodopa, lithium, oral contraceptives, pergolide, phenobarbital, phenytoin, sulfonamides, testosterone, thiazide diuretics, ticlopidine, venlafaxine
- Decrease: AIDS, chronic anemia, hemolytic anemia, hyperthyroidism, hypolipoproteinemia, liver disease, malabsorption, malnutrition, pernicious anemia, sepsis, severe infections, stress. Medications: ACE inhibitors, allopurinol, androgens, cholesterol-lowering agents, erythromycin, estrogens, filgrastim, levothyroxine, metformin, phenytoin, prazosin, tamoxifen, terazosin
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting 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 analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your 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 contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
