Lipid panel (lipidogram)

A lipid panel is a group of laboratory blood tests used to assess fat (lipid) metabolism in the body and to evaluate the risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease. The lipid panel helps detect lipid imbalances, which are often asymptomatic but can eventually lead to atherosclerosis, heart attack, or stroke.

The lipid panel includes several key indicators:

• Total cholesterol
• Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol)
• High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL, or “good” cholesterol)
• Triglycerides

The ratio between these markers is particularly important in assessing the risk of atherosclerosis. For this reason, the lipid panel is used not only for diagnostic purposes but also to monitor treatment effectiveness.

Test Principle:

All lipid fractions are measured from venous blood using biochemical methods. Results are reported in mmol/L. Risk assessment often involves calculating the LDL/HDL ratio or the total cholesterol/HDL ratio.

Recommendations:

• Recommended as a preventive measure for adults at least once a year.
• Useful for evaluating cardiovascular disease risk, especially in individuals with high blood pressure, excess weight, or a family history of dyslipidemia.
• Ordered for patients taking lipid-lowering medications or following a lipid-lowering diet.
• Required before and during statin therapy.
• Indicated for patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome.

Fasting is recommended for 12–14 hours before the test.