What is the Cholesterol Balance Test?
The Boston Heart Cholesterol Balance Test is a specialized blood test that measures various markers to evaluate cholesterol absorption and synthesis in the body. This test provides a comprehensive view of how your body manages cholesterol, including markers such as desmosterol, lathosterol, campesterol, and sitosterol.
Why is This Test Important?
Understanding your cholesterol balance is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health. This test may help identify whether your body is absorbing too much cholesterol from your diet or producing too much cholesterol. Such insights may guide personalized treatment plans to manage cholesterol levels more effectively and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Why Should You Consider Ordering this Test?
Consider ordering this test if you have a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol levels despite dietary changes, or if you’re looking for a detailed analysis of your cholesterol metabolism. This test may help you and your healthcare provider develop a tailored plan to improve your heart health and overall well-being. It is also important to reach out to your doctor if you are experiencing any signs and symptoms.
Labs Included in Your Order
| Test Name | Reference Ranges | High and Low Levels Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Lathosterol |
|
High: High levels of lathosterol indicate cholesterol overproduction, which is associated with higher LDL-C and increased CVD risk.
Low: Low levels of lathosterol are generally not a concern. |
| Desmosterol |
|
High: High levels of desmosterol indicate cholesterol overproduction, which is associated with higher LDL-C and increased CVD risk.
Low: Low levels of desmosterol are generally not a concern. |
| Beta-sitosterol |
|
High: High levels of beta-sitosterol indicate cholesterol overabsorption, which is associated with higher LDL-C and increased CVD risk.
Low: Low levels of beta-sitosterol are generally not a concern. |
| Campesterol |
|
High: High levels of campesterol indicate cholesterol overabsorption, which is associated with higher LDL-C and increased CVD risk.
Low: Low levels of campesterol are generally not a concern. |
| Cholesterol Balance Score |
|
High: High cholesterol balance score indicates overproduction of cholesterol.
Low: Low cholesterol balance score indicates overabsorption of cholesterol. |
Boston Heart Cholesterol Balance Test FAQ
What is the Cholesterol Balance Test for?
This test is designed to assess cholesterol metabolism by measuring markers of cholesterol production and absorption. It may help determine whether your body is producing too much cholesterol or absorbing too much from your diet.
What do low and high levels mean?
High levels of production markers (lathosterol, desmosterol) indicate overproduction of cholesterol, which is linked to higher LDL-C and increased cardiovascular disease risk. High levels of absorption markers (beta-sitosterol, campesterol) indicate overabsorption of cholesterol, also associated with higher LDL-C and cardiovascular disease risk. Low levels are generally not a concern.
What are the signs and symptoms of cholesterol imbalance?
Symptoms of high cholesterol can include chest pain, heart attack, and stroke. Often, high cholesterol has no symptoms and is detected through blood tests. Immediately consult with your doctor if you are experiencing any signs and symptoms.
How often should I retest?
It is suggested to retest every 3-6 months, or as advised by your healthcare provider, to monitor your cholesterol levels and the effectiveness of any treatment or lifestyle changes.
How accurate is the test?
This is highly accurate, using advanced methods like capillary column gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS) to ensure precise measurement of cholesterol markers.
Are test results private and confidential?
Receive test results securely on TrueHealthLabs.com under ‘My Account.’ It’s critical that you share them with your physician. Results may be disclosed to health authorities only if legally mandated, e.g., for STDs or COVID-19. Review our privacy policy for more details.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by our medical review board consisting of Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Labs 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.
