Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol measures the combined amount of HDL, LDL, and VLDL cholesterol in the blood. While it is the most commonly measured lipid marker, it provides limited clinical value on its own because it does not distinguish between protective (HDL) and atherogenic (LDL, VLDL) cholesterol.
A person can have high total cholesterol driven by high HDL (protective) or high LDL (atherogenic) — the clinical implications are very different. For this reason, a full lipid panel (with HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and ideally ApoB) is far more informative.
Very low total cholesterol (< 120 mg/dL) has been associated with increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke, depression, and hormonal disruption, as cholesterol is essential for cell membranes, hormone synthesis, and vitamin D production.
What It Measures
Total concentration of all cholesterol fractions (HDL + LDL + VLDL) in blood serum.
Reference Ranges
| Status | Range (mg/dL) |
|---|---|
| Optimal | 150–200 mg/dL |
| Normal | < 200 mg/dL |
| Borderline | 200–239 mg/dL |
| Out of Range | >= 240 mg/dL |
How GATOR Tracks This
Lab Providers
Related Clinical Ratios
Related Biomarkers
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for interpretation of your results and treatment decisions.
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