Description
Lipid Panel
CPT Code: 80061
This test is a standard fasting lipid panel used to assess cardiovascular and metabolic risk by measuring circulating blood lipids.
What this test measures
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Total Cholesterol – overall cholesterol level in the blood
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LDL Cholesterol (calculated or direct) – primary cholesterol fraction associated with plaque formation
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HDL Cholesterol – protective cholesterol involved in reverse cholesterol transport
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Triglycerides – circulating fats linked to insulin resistance and vascular risk
Why this test is important
The lipid panel is a foundational screening tool for:
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Cardiovascular disease risk
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Atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease
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Metabolic syndrome
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Monitoring response to diet, lifestyle, or lipid-lowering medications (including statins)
It is commonly used for baseline assessment and longitudinal monitoring.
What results may suggest
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Elevated LDL or triglycerides: Increased atherosclerotic and metabolic risk
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Low HDL: Reduced vascular protection
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High triglycerides: Insulin resistance, carbohydrate intolerance, or alcohol-related effects
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Balanced lipid profile: Lower cardiovascular risk, especially when paired with favorable inflammatory markers
Important limitations
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LDL reflects cholesterol content, not particle number
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Normal LDL does not always rule out vascular risk
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Does not measure particle burden (ApoB) or inflammation
For this reason, lipid panels are often paired with Apolipoprotein B, Lp(a), or inflammatory markers for deeper risk stratification.
Preparation
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Fasting recommended (9–12 hours) for most accurate triglyceride measurement
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Water permitted
Specimen
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Blood draw at LabCorp
Clinical notes
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Appropriate for routine screening, annual exams, and medication monitoring
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Remains useful even in patients already on statins
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Best interpreted in the context of glucose markers, blood pressure, and family history
After ordering, a LabCorp requisition will be provided for sample collection.