Serum total cholesterol is used to determine the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Cholesterol is synthesized in the liver from dietary fats. Its functions include the production of bile salts and several of the steroid hormones and as a structural component of cell membranes. Cholesterol is transported to the blood by low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad cholesterol") and high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good cholesterol"). Much of the 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. Measurement of total cholesterol allows assessment of this risk, helps in determining 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, dysfunction Medications: Antipsychotics, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, disulfiram, lansoprazole, levodopa, lithium, oral contraceptives, bergolide, phenobarbital, phenytoin, sulfonamides, testosterone, thiazolidone
- Decrease: AIDS, chronic anemia, hemolytic anemia, hyperthyroidism, hypolipoproteinemia, liver disease, malabsorption, malnutrition, pernicious anemia, sepsis, serious infections, stress. Medications: ACE inhibitors, allopurinol, androgens, cholesterol lowering agents, erythromycin, estrogen, filgrastim, levothyroxine, metformin, phenytoin, prazosin, tamoxifen, terazosin
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.
