Ordering the Lipid Electrophoresis Test
Ordering a Lipid Electrophoresis test is important for understanding the different types of cholesterol and fats in your blood. This test helps identify specific lipoprotein patterns that can indicate a risk for heart disease. Interestingly, it can also detect rare genetic disorders affecting lipid metabolism.
Here are some specific benefits of the Lipid Electrophoresis test:
- Identifies abnormal cholesterol levels.
- Helps assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Detects genetic lipid disorders.
- Monitors the effectiveness of lipid-lowering treatments.
- Provides detailed lipoprotein profiling.
Who Should Consider Lipoprotein Analysis
Individuals with a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol may benefit from this test. For example, if someone has a parent who experienced a heart attack at a young age, they might want to consider this test to understand their own risk factors.
Other scenarios where this test might be considered include:
- Experiencing unexplained fatigue or weakness.
- Having a personal history of high cholesterol.
- Being diagnosed with diabetes.
- Undergoing treatment for high cholesterol.
- Experiencing unexpected weight gain, which can sometimes be linked to lipid imbalances.
Consider ordering the test if any of these situations apply to you.
Preparing for Lipid Profile Testing
Fasting is required for the Lipid Electrophoresis test to ensure accurate results. If you are taking any medications or supplements, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Lipid Electrophoresis
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Lipid Electrophoresis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cholesterol | 125-200 | Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood. It is essential for building cells, but too much can lead to heart disease. | High levels mean increased risk of heart disease.
Low levels mean potential malnutrition or liver disease. |
| Triglycerides | <150 | Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood. They store unused calories and provide energy. | High levels mean increased risk of heart disease.
Low levels mean potential malnutrition or hyperthyroidism. |
| Chylomicrons | Absent | Chylomicrons are particles that transport dietary lipids from the intestines to other locations in the body. | High levels mean potential genetic lipid disorder.
Low levels mean normal digestion and lipid absorption. |
| Beta Lipoproteins | <130 | Beta lipoproteins, or LDL, carry cholesterol to tissues. High levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries. | High levels mean increased risk of atherosclerosis.
Low levels mean potential malnutrition or hyperthyroidism. |
| Pre-Beta Lipoproteins | <30 | Pre-beta lipoproteins, or VLDL, transport triglycerides. They are precursors to LDL. | High levels mean increased risk of heart disease.
Low levels mean potential malnutrition or hyperthyroidism. |
| Alpha Lipoproteins | >40 | Alpha lipoproteins, or HDL, help remove cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing heart disease risk. | High levels mean reduced risk of heart disease.
Low levels mean increased risk of heart disease. |
Reference ranges can vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date reference ranges for this lab test, visit Quest Diagnostics.
Lipid Electrophoresis FAQ
Is there Lipid Electrophoresis testing near me?
You can find nearby draw locations for the Lipid Electrophoresis test with our patient service center locator that also has mobile phlebotomy options.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost of the Lipid Electrophoresis test can be found at the top of the page. Pricing includes draw fees when visiting patient service centers.
How often should I retest?
Retesting for Lipid Electrophoresis is typically recommended every 4 to 6 months, especially if you are monitoring treatment effectiveness. Regular testing helps track changes in your lipid profile.
How accurate is the test?
The Lipid Electrophoresis test uses electrophoresis to separate and measure different lipoproteins in the blood. This method provides detailed information about your lipid profile. TrueHealthLabs.com only partners with CLIA certified labs to ensure high standards of testing accuracy.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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