Lipid Panel
Measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels to assess cardiovascular risk.
About this test
A lipid panel measures cholesterol and triglycerides to help estimate cardiovascular risk and monitor treatment.
Common reasons for testing
- Cardiovascular risk assessment based on age, family history, and other risk factors.
- Monitoring cholesterol-lowering treatment or a known lipid disorder.
These are examples of clinical uses. Your history and symptoms determine whether testing is appropriate.
What to expect
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch and have mild bruising. Tell the person collecting your sample if you have fainted with needles or take a blood thinner; keep pressure on the site afterward.
Appointment length
Your visit is expected to take about 15 minutes at our West Ashley location.
Categories
Preparation
- Nonfasting testing is suitable for many routine lipid checks. Fasting may be requested for high triglycerides or a specific follow-up question.
- Follow the instructions for your order rather than fasting automatically.
- Bring a list of medicines and supplements, including biotin, vitamins, and hormones. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to.
Instructions for this appointment
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before your appointment is recommended, but the specific instructions depend on why you are testing. We will confirm with you during booking.
Follow the instructions confirmed for your order. If they differ from the general guidance, contact the team before changing food, fluids, or medicines.
Order requirement
No outside order needed
Understanding your results
- The result is interpreted with blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and other risk factors.
- It cannot tell whether a coronary artery is currently blocked.
What happens next?
Review the report with your clinician alongside your symptoms, medical history, and earlier results. A value outside the reference range does not always mean disease, and a normal result does not explain every symptom. Confirm who will arrange any repeat or additional testing.
Sources & further reading
This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.
- Fasting Is Not Routinely Required for Determination of a Lipid Profile
Clinical Chemistry, 2016
Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.
Know the cost before your visit
Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise lab bill.
Self-pay price
One transparent price for this test. Payment terms are presented before your booking is finalized.
Start bookingOur pricing promise
Transparent self-pay pricing — you see the price before you book.
No surprise lab bill after your visit.
If testing is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.
Ready to get started?
Start the guided booking. It takes just a few minutes, and you can move back and forth without losing your answers.