Lipid Panel

LDL Cholesterol

Normal range < 100 optimal mg/dL (< 2.6 optimal mmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum (fasting).

Also known as: low-density lipoprotein, bad cholesterol.

< 100 optimal mg/dLReference range

Reference range

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

Specimen	Serum (fasting)
Conventional range	< 100 optimal mg/dL
SI range	< 2.6 optimal mmol/L
Conversion factor	×0.0259 (conventional → SI)
Panel	Lipid Panel

Convert any LDL Cholesterol result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for LDL Cholesterol?

The standard teaching reference range for LDL Cholesterol is < 100 optimal mg/dL in conventional units, or < 2.6 optimal mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum (fasting).

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 LDL Cholesterol

Atherogenic diet
Familial hypercholesterolemia
Hypothyroidism
Diabetes

Below the range

Common causes of a low LDL Cholesterol

Statin therapy
Hyperthyroidism
Malnutrition

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

The primary target for cardiovascular risk reduction.
Optimal < 100; < 70 for very high-risk patients.

Study aid

Your notes on LDL Cholesterol

Your notes

Same panel

More Lipid Panel tests

Cholesterol, Total< 200 desirable mg/dL HDL Cholesterol≥ 40 (higher is protective) mg/dL Triglycerides< 150 normal mg/dL VLDL Cholesterol2–30 mg/dL