What is tested in a lipid panel?

A lipid panel is specifically designed to measure various types of fats in the blood, primarily focusing on cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The components typically analyzed in a lipid panel include:

• Total cholesterol: This provides an overall measure of the cholesterol present in the blood.

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol: Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, high levels can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol: Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream.

• Triglycerides: These are another type of fat found in the blood, and elevated levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

By measuring these factors, healthcare providers can assess an individual's risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions, making the lipid panel an essential test in routine health assessments.

The other options represent different types of tests or evaluations that are not included in a lipid panel, focusing on aspects such as glucose metabolism, blood cell counts, and immune function, which are unrelated to lipid measurements.