Interpret Your LDL Cholesterol Results
Enter your LDL-C value below and get an instant, free AI interpretation — a plain-English explanation checked against WHO/IFCC reference ranges.
Medical Disclaimer
This AI-generated interpretation is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results may vary based on individual health factors not captured here.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions. Read full disclaimer →
LDL Cholesterol Normal Ranges
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is the primary carrier of cholesterol in the blood and the main driver of atherosclerotic plaque formation.
| Age Group | Reference Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (18–64) | 0 – 100 | mg/dL | Optimal |
| Adults (18–64) | 100 – 129 | mg/dL | Near optimal |
| Adults (18–64) | 130 – 159 | mg/dL | Borderline high |
| Adults (18–64) | 160 – 9999 | mg/dL | High |
Also reported in: mmol/L.
Critical (Panic) Values
Critical High: > 190 mg/dL. Values outside these limits require immediate clinical attention.
Why Doctors Order the LDL Cholesterol Test
LDL-C is the primary target of cardiovascular risk reduction therapy. Statins, ezetimibe, and PCSK9 inhibitors all lower LDL-C.
How to Enter Your LDL-C Result
LDL Cholesterol can be reported in mg/dL or mmol/L. Choose the unit printed next to your result on the lab report so it is compared with the matching reference range.
What a Low or High LDL-C Can Be Associated With
Below the reference range
- Statin therapy (treatment target)
- Malnutrition
- Hyperthyroidism
- Liver disease
- Abetalipoproteinemia (rare genetic)
Above the reference range
- Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) — genetic, LDL often >190 mg/dL
- High saturated fat and trans fat diet
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- Nephrotic syndrome
This interpreter flags a result at or above 190 mg/dL as a critical value. Results that extreme are uncommon — contact your doctor promptly, and seek urgent medical care if you feel unwell.
These are common associations, not a diagnosis. A single result is read alongside your symptoms, history and other tests — discuss it with your doctor.
What Can Change Your LDL-C Result
Before you read too much into a result, consider whether any of these applied:
- Non-fasting (triglycerides rise after eating, making Friedewald calculation less accurate)
- Very high triglycerides (>400 mg/dL) — Friedewald equation invalid, direct LDL required
- Acute illness or MI (LDL drops acutely — measure within 24 hours of MI or 4–6 weeks after)
- Pregnancy (LDL rises physiologically)
Preparing for the test: Fast for 9–12 hours. LDL is usually calculated using the Friedewald equation (Total-C − HDL − TG/5).
Symptoms That Often Prompt LDL-C Testing
- No symptoms until vascular complications occur
- Angina (chest pain) from coronary artery disease
- Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- Stroke
- Xanthomas and xanthelasma (familial hypercholesterolemia)
Want the full clinical guide to LDL Cholesterol?
Reference ranges, causes, symptoms, preparation, and FAQs.