LabVals

All tests · Lipid Panel

Lipid Panel

Cholesterol, Total

Normal range < 200 desirable mg/dL (< 5.2 desirable mmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum (fasting preferred).

Also known as: total cholesterol.

< 200 desirable mg/dLReference range

Reference range

This result is reported qualitatively or as a one-sided threshold rather than a two-sided numeric band.

SpecimenSerum (fasting preferred)
Conventional range< 200 desirable mg/dL
SI range< 5.2 desirable mmol/L
Conversion factor×0.0259 (conventional → SI)
PanelLipid Panel

Convert any Cholesterol, Total result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Cholesterol, Total?

The standard teaching reference range for Cholesterol, Total is < 200 desirable mg/dL in conventional units, or < 5.2 desirable mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum (fasting preferred).

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Cholesterol, Total

  • Diet high in saturated fat
  • Familial hypercholesterolemia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Nephrotic syndrome

Below the range

Common causes of a low Cholesterol, Total

  • Malnutrition
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Liver failure

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Desirable < 200, borderline 200–239, high ≥ 240 mg/dL.
  • Interpret with LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, not alone.

Study aid

Your notes on Cholesterol, Total

Same panel

More Lipid Panel tests

HDL Cholesterol≥ 40 (higher is protective) mg/dLLDL Cholesterol< 100 optimal mg/dLTriglycerides< 150 normal mg/dLVLDL Cholesterol2–30 mg/dL