HDL Cholesterol Subclasses

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Serum

Requires fasting: No

Phlebotomy required

Details

HDL Cholesterol Subclasses - This test measures the concentrations of 2 major high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol subclasses (HDL2 cholesterol and HDL3 cholesterol) and may be used in studying the correlation between HDL subclasses and certain diseases, especially coronary heart disease (CHD) risk.

Biomarker summary

HDL-2 Cholesterol
HDL-3 Cholesterol

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Details

HDL is a heterogeneous group of particles that transports lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides. Based on hydrated densities, HDL can be divided into HDL2 (40% of total HDL) and HDL3 (60% of total HDL); HDL3 is smaller and denser. HDL2 and HDL3 differ in composition, functionality, and atherogenic or atheroprotective properties [1].

HDL cholesterol level has been inversely related to the CHD risk, but simply increasing total HDL cholesterol levels could not reduce future cardiovascular events [1]. Therefore, the atheroprotective properties of HDL were assumed to be rooted in the functionality of different HDL particles instead of total HDL cholesterol concentration. The value of HDL subgroup measurements for assessing CHD risk and various other conditions have been investigated, but whether HDL2 or HDL3 is the beneficial subfraction for CHD remains unclear [1].

The results of this test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and family history and physical examination findings.

Reference
1. Lappegard KT, et al. Biomedicines. 2021;9(7):836.

What type of sample is required for this test?

3 mL serum

Test Resources

For more information, please consult your healthcare provider.

Average sample processing time

2–5 business days

Reference range

HDL 2 Cholesterol 9–38 mg/dL

HDL 3 Cholesterol 22–35 mg/dL

Health categories

Cardiovascular

Patient instructions

If a cholesterol measurement is to be performed along with other lipid tests, the patient should fast 9-12 hours prior to collection.

Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide

Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy

Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
Collection Instructions: