Details
Why Test for Cholesterol Levels?
Cholesterol is a vital sterol found in all animal cells and plays a crucial role in protecting human tissues. It has several important functions in metabolism. It is a vital component of all cell membranes and provides structural support for vitamin D, adrenal and sex hormones, brain myelin, and bile acids which aid in fat digestion and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
While high levels of cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol, have been associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), low cholesterol levels are often overlooked despite their serious health consequences. The terms “good cholesterol” and “bad cholesterol” are associated with HDL and LDL cholesterol, respectively, but if a person’s tissues have a significant overall deficiency of cholesterol, both types can be beneficial.
Interestingly, LDL cholesterol can protect against infection. It has been found to protect human red blood cells from endotoxins produced by deadly staphylococcus bacteria. High cholesterol may also be deposited as a beneficial “patch” on inflamed or injured blood vessels, especially coronary arteries. Furthermore, studying genetic disorders that prevent cholesterol synthesis can help understand the health consequences of low cholesterol. Low cholesterol has been associated with a greater risk of suicide, violence, and mood disorders such as depression, as it influences serotonin activity in the brain. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression and violent and anti-social behavior. Overall, cholesterol is crucial for many bodily functions and, as with everything in nature, balance is key.
Learn More About the Advanced Cholesterol Profile: Explore FAQs
Analytes
The Advanced Cholesterol Panel is a serum panel that can help identify cholesterol deficiencies or abnormalities in cholesterol transport.
By analyzing the markers below, you can receive a comprehensive assessment of your cholesterol levels.
- Total Cholesterol
- Apolipoprotein A-I (APO A-1)
- Apolipoprotein B (APO B)
- Lipoprotein (A) (LP (A))
- Homocysteine
Sample Reports
This test report can help healthcare professionals make informed decisions about the appropriate treatment and management of their patients’ cholesterol levels.
Test Prep and Instructions
MosaicDX offers patient-friendly sample collection kits that simplify testing. Our kits include visual, step-by-step instructions for test preparation and sample collection, personalized shipping cards, and pediatric collection bags if needed. With MosaicDX, patients can easily collect samples for testing with confidence and accuracy.
