Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Cholesterol is the principal sterol synthesised by animals, an essential component of cell membranes, and precursor of steroid hormones, vitamin D and bile acids. It is also a component of lipoproteins, which are required for transport of triglycerides. Cholesterol is transported in plasma primarily (but not exclusively) in the form of low density lipoproteins (LDL); the principal route for its removal from tissues to the liver is in high density lipoproteins (HDL), followed by excretion in the bile. HDL-C is usually requested with other tests, either with cholesterol or as part of a lipid profile, including LDL-C and triglycerides. The combination of total cholesterol and HDL-C is very useful for screening for the risk of heart disease. High levels of HDL cholesterol are better than low HDL cholesterol. The higher your HDL cholesterol level, the lower the risk of developing heart disease.
Specimen container paediatric:
Serum (SST or plain tube)
Specimen container adult:
Serum (SST or plain tube)
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5 mL blood
Minimum volume adult:
1 mL blood
Sample stability:
Unseparated sample:
- 2 days
Separated sample:
- 3 days at 15-25°C
- 7 days at 2-8°C
- 12 months at -20°C