Lipidogram

Lipidogram is a group of laboratory blood tests designed to assess the metabolism of fats (lipids) in the body and determine the risk of heart and vascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease. The lipidogram helps to evaluate lipid imbalance, which is often asymptomatic but can eventually lead to atherosclerosis, heart attack, or stroke.

The lipidogram includes several key indicators: total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL, also known as 'bad' cholesterol), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL, 'good' cholesterol), and triglycerides. The ratio of these indicators is crucial in assessing the risk of atherosclerosis, so the test is often used not only for diagnostics but also to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Test principle: All lipid fraction indicators are determined by biochemical methods from venous blood. Results are presented in mmol/l units. When evaluating values, the LDL/HDL ratio or the total cholesterol to HDL ratio is often calculated.

Recommendations:

• It is recommended to perform prophylactically for adults at least once a year.
• Useful in assessing the risk of heart and vascular diseases, especially with high blood pressure, overweight, or a family tendency to dyslipidemia.
• The test is prescribed for patients taking cholesterol-lowering medications or following a diet.
• Required before and during treatment with statins.
• Performed for patients diagnosed with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
• It is recommended to come for the test fasting for 12-14 hours.