With LDL 95 mg/dL and HDL 42 mg/dL, how is the lipid profile categorized?

With LDL 95 mg/dL and HDL 42 mg/dL, how is the lipid profile categorized?

• A. Desirable LDL; HDL acceptable; overall favorable
• B. Desirable LDL; HDL excellent
• C. High LDL; HDL low
• D. LDL borderline; HDL high

Answer: (A)

When you evaluate lipid panels, you’re looking at targets for LDL and HDL and what they imply for cardiovascular risk. An LDL under 100 mg/dL is considered desirable because lower LDL reduces the amount of cholesterol building up in arteries. An HDL in the 40–59 mg/dL range is generally acceptable; HDL becomes excellent when it’s 60 mg/dL or higher, offering more protective benefit. With an LDL of 95 mg/dL, that portion meets the desirable target. An HDL of 42 mg/dL is not low, but it isn’t in the excellent range either, so it’s considered acceptable. Put together, this profile is favorable: LDL is in the desirable range and HDL is adequate, not low.

When you evaluate lipid panels, you’re looking at targets for LDL and HDL and what they imply for cardiovascular risk. An LDL under 100 mg/dL is considered desirable because lower LDL reduces the amount of cholesterol building up in arteries. An HDL in the 40–59 mg/dL range is generally acceptable; HDL becomes excellent when it’s 60 mg/dL or higher, offering more protective benefit.

With an LDL of 95 mg/dL, that portion meets the desirable target. An HDL of 42 mg/dL is not low, but it isn’t in the excellent range either, so it’s considered acceptable. Put together, this profile is favorable: LDL is in the desirable range and HDL is adequate, not low.