Lipid Panel Standard

Description

Lipid Panel measures serum cholesterol and triglyceride (TG) levels; it includes evaluation of the cholesterol/HDL-C ratio, HDL-C, LDL-C, non-HDL-C, total cholesterol, and TG. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in the evaluation of cardiovascular risk and the likelihood of suffering an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease, as well as the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. The risk of developing CVD and having an ischemic event is significantly increased in individuals with high LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and TG levels. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that Americans aged 20 and above have their lipid levels tested every 4 to 6 years. The AHA recommends repeat measurement of LDL-C within 4 to 12 weeks of starting or changing lipid-lowering therapy, to assess response and adherence, and then every 3 to 12 months as appropriate.