NMR LipoProfile® – Advanced Lipid Particle Test
Description
The NMR LipoProfile® is one of the most advanced cholesterol tests available today. Unlike a standard lipid panel that only measures how much cholesterol is in your blood, this test measures the number and size of your LDL and HDL particles — giving a far more accurate picture of your cardiovascular risk.
Developed using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) technology, this test separates lipoprotein particles by density and reveals whether your cholesterol is made up of large, protective particles or small, dense ones that can oxidize and damage artery walls.
Why This Test Matters
Traditional cholesterol numbers can be misleading. Two people with the same LDL level can have very different heart disease risks depending on the type of LDL particles they carry.
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Small, dense LDL particles are more likely to oxidize, stick to artery walls, and form plaque.
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Large, buoyant LDL particles are less likely to cause damage.
The NMR LipoProfile helps identify those at risk for hidden cardiovascular inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome long before symptoms appear.
What’s Included
This comprehensive LabCorp analysis measures:
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LDL Particle Number (LDL-P): Total number of LDL particles — the most predictive risk marker.
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LDL Size: Average size of LDL particles — smaller = greater risk.
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HDL Particle Number and Size (HDL-P): Reflects protective capacity against plaque buildup.
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VLDL Particle Count: Indicates triglyceride-rich lipoproteins linked to insulin resistance.
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Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides
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LP-IR Score (Lipoprotein Insulin Resistance Index): Estimates insulin resistance and early metabolic changes. (Included in select panels.)
What This Test Can Tell You
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Whether your cholesterol particles are oxidized or dense (a sign of inflammation and higher risk)
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Whether you may benefit from diet, lifestyle, or supplement changes that improve lipid metabolism
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If you have metabolic syndrome or early insulin resistance that standard tests miss
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How effectively your current diet or therapy is improving cardiovascular health
Who Should Consider This Test
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Anyone with borderline or high cholesterol who wants a deeper look
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Those with a family history of heart disease or diabetes
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Individuals on statins or cholesterol medication evaluating effectiveness
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People with normal cholesterol but unexplained fatigue, inflammation, or metabolic concerns
Test Details
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Test Name: NMR LipoProfile®
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Lab: LabCorp
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Test Code: 123810
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Specimen: Blood draw (fasting 8–12 hours recommended)
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Turnaround: 3–5 business days after sample collection
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Preparation: Fast 8–12 hours; water permitted