Lipid metabolism encompasses all processes in the body that have to do with the formation, transportation, storage and breakdown of lipids, i.e. fats and cholesterol. Lipids are essential as they provide energy, build cell membranes and serve as hormones or signaling molecules. Metabolism takes place primarily in the liver, fatty tissue and muscles and is closely linked to general health.

Why is it important?

A healthy lipid metabolism is crucial to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as arteriosclerosis. Excessive levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) or triglycerides can lead to vasoconstriction, while “good” cholesterol (HDL) helps to remove excess cholesterol from the blood. Disorders can also lead to obesity, diabetes or other metabolic diseases, which is why monitoring through laboratory tests is important.

What laboratory tests are carried out?

The most common tests are part of the so-called lipid panel, which includes the following:

• Total cholesterol: Measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood.
• LDL cholesterol: The “bad” cholesterol that can be deposited in the arteries.
• HDL cholesterol: The “good” cholesterol that transports excess cholesterol back to the liver.
• Triglycerides: Fats that serve as energy stores and can increase the risk of heart attack at high levels.

In addition, other tests such as apolipoproteins or lipoprotein(a) can be performed to assess the risk more accurately, but these are less common.

Implementation and interpretation

The blood sample is usually taken after a fasting period of about 12 hours, especially for triglycerides, as eating can influence the values. The typical normal ranges are

• Total cholesterol: <200 mg/dl (5.17 mmol/L)
• LDL cholesterol: <130 mg/dl (3.36 mmol/L) for people at low risk, <100 mg/dl for high-risk patients
• HDL cholesterol: >40 mg/dl (1.03 mmol/L) for men, >50 mg/dl (1.29 mmol/L) for women
• Triglycerides: <150 mg/dl (1.7 mmol/L)

Deviations may indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but the results must always be considered in the context of individual health, diet, exercise and genetic factors.

Matching:

Prognostic markers: lipids can predict treatment efficacy in colorectal cancer – MedLabPortal

Biomarker: Ceramide ring trial enables milestone in lipid research – MedLabPortal

Lipidomics proves it: Too much butter makes you sick – MedLabPortal

Editorial office: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender note. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple references and gendered designations are avoided for the sake of better readability ected.