What Is a Lipid Panel?

A lipid (LIP-id) panel is a blood test that measures levels of different kinds of fats in the blood:

• Total cholesterol is the amount of the different types of cholesterol added together. The body needs some cholesterol. But too much can cause health problems.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is often called "good" cholesterol. HDL helps the body get rid of extra “bad” cholesterol.
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is often called "bad" cholesterol. LDL that builds up in the bloodstream can clog blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease.
• Triglycerides (try-GLISS-uh-rides) store energy until the body needs it. If the body holds on to too many triglycerides, blood vessels can get clogged and cause health problems.

Why Are Lipid Panels Done?

A lipid panel can show a person's risk for developing heart disease or atherosclerosis (ah-thuh-row-skluh-ROW-sus), which is a hardening, narrowing, or blockage of the arteries. Fixing the lipid levels early on may help prevent these problems.

Top Things to Know

• A lipid panel checks the level of certain fats in the blood.
• The test results can show how much “good” and “bad” cholesterol is in the body.
• Kids may need to fast and avoid exercise before the test.
• Your doctor can explain what it means if the cholesterol levels are too low or too high.

How Can I Help My Child Prepare for a Blood Test?

Your child may be asked to stop eating and drinking for 8–12 hours before a lipid panel, and not to exercise for 12–14 hours before it.

To help kids get ready for this and other blood tests, also find out if they need to stop taking medicines before the test. Explain what to expect during the test. If your child is nervous about it, work together on ways to stay relaxed. Deep breathing or even imagining being in a place that makes your child feel safe and calm can help.

What Do Lipid Panel Results Mean?

Your doctor will explain what the results of the lipid panel mean for your child.

The usual cholesterol goals for kids 2–18 years old are:

• total cholesterol: less than 170 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood
• LDL cholesterol: less than 110 mg/dL
• HDL cholesterol: higher than 45 mg/dL

For triglycerides, the usual goals are:

• kids under 9 years old: less than 75 mg/dL
• kids 10–19 years old: less than 90 mg/dL

If your child’s level doesn’t meet the target, your doctor may recommend changes like a healthier diet, more exercise, and weight management. In some cases, kids might need to see a dietitian or take medicine.

What Else Should I Know?

Kids may need to have another lipid panel in a few months to see how treatment is working. If you have questions about the lipid panel or what the results mean, talk with your doctor.