Lipid profile: deciphering the biochemical analysis of HDL, norms and pathologies. Lipidogram and lipid spectrum of blood - decoding of the analysis

Lipidogram - what is it? A lipidogram is a special study of the level of cholesterol in the blood (specialists take blood from a vein). This analysis allows you to get a lot of useful information for further treatment, it shows:

• cholesterol level;
• The level of "good" cholesterol (HDL);
• The level of "bad" cholesterol (LDL);
• triglyceride level.

It is necessary to take this analysis regularly until the doctors receive an accurate result, on the basis of which it will be possible to make a diagnosis. You should also sign up for a lipid profile if you are at risk, but more on that later.

When is a lipid profile prescribed?

There are many indications for a lipid profile, and only a cardiologist can prescribe it.

Here are the main ones:

Preparation: what needs to be done before a lipidogram?

To obtain an accurate result, special preparation for the test is required, this is very important, because any deviation can underlie an incorrect diagnosis and erroneous treatment! You should change your lifestyle a little for 1 week before the lipid profile, but something must remain the same.

What is examined when taking this analysis?

The lipidogram includes 4 main indicators, which doctors rely on for further treatment:

1. Cholesterol (second name - total cholesterol)

This indicator is one of the main ones. Doctors divide cholesterol into exogenous (which enters the body with food) and endogenous, which is produced by the body.

Cholesterol is responsible for many processes, for example:

• For the formation of tissues;
• For puberty;
• For the formation of cell membranes;
• For the general development of the whole organism.

2. "Good" cholesterol (scientific name - high-density lipoprotein)

This cholesterol does not harm the body, you should not try to get rid of it, as it performs many useful functions. For example, “good” cholesterol is involved in the transport of all cholesterol to the cells. He himself is excreted from the body through the liver, and deviations in its quantity can portend many diseases.

3. "Bad" cholesterol (scientific name - low-density lipoprotein)

This indicator is the most important, because this is the cholesterol that many people suffer from! If your low-density lipoprotein level is very high, then you should be seriously concerned, as there is a high chance of developing atherosclerosis and other diseases of the cardiovascular system.

"Bad" cholesterol is dangerous because it has the unpleasant property of lingering on the walls of blood vessels, forming plaques that can even lead to death (if clogged).

Triglycerides are practically not found in blood plasma, but they are in adipose tissues in large quantities.
This indicator is important to control, because triglycerides that are not converted into energy turn into "bad" cholesterol.

Some experts also calculate very low density lipoprotein, but its effect on the development of the disease has not yet been proven, so it is often not found in the analyzes.

Decoding: what do deviations from the norms mean?

It is worth focusing on deciphering deviations from the norm in various indications.

1. Violations associated with the norm of cholesterol

If you find a low level of total cholesterol in the blood, then this may warn you about the development of:

1. fever;
2. Various lung diseases;
3. Hyperthyroidism;
4. anemia.

In addition, such a decrease can be caused by severe physical exhaustion or starvation.

If your cholesterol is high (this happens much more often), then you may have:

There are also simpler causes of high cholesterol, such as obesity, pregnancy, or alcohol abuse.

2. Disorders associated with "bad" cholesterol

If you have low "bad" cholesterol, then you may develop:

• Any disease of the respiratory system;
• Hyperthyroidism;
• Reye's syndrome;
• Tangier syndrome.

If you have high "bad" cholesterol, you may have:

Do not draw preliminary conclusions before consulting with a specialist, because you may be eating too much junk food, and the problem is solved by an ordinary diet!

3. Disorders associated with "good" cholesterol

Unlike previous indicators of "good" cholesterol, there is often not enough, the reason may be:

Dangerous diagnoses! And the reason for the increase in "good" cholesterol can be:

• cirrhosis;
• Alcoholism;

4. Triglyceride disorders

If you notice that as a result of the analysis you have a low level of triglycerides, then you should think about:

• Dangerous chronic diseases of the respiratory system;
• Hyperthyroidism;
• Eating disorders.

And the cause of an increased level of triglycerides can be:

Summing up

Lipidogram is a popular method for diagnosing many diseases of the cardiovascular system, for example, cardiologists are able to accurately assess the risk of a heart attack or other diseases that appear due to high levels of "bad" cholesterol.

The specialist must attribute you to some risk group, the frequency of subsequent preventive lipidograms depends on this!

Here are common diseases that can be avoided with the timely conduct of this analysis:

• Liver disease;
• heart attack;
• kidney disease;
• Atherosclerosis.

These diseases can be prevented without any problems if you are careful about your health.

Lipid profile- This is a biochemical blood test, the results of which show the content of lipoproteins and the lipids themselves in the blood. Lipoproteins are particles that have an insoluble core and a hydrophilic shell. They carry fats through the circulatory system. There is an opinion that fats (cholesterol) are only harmful for the body, since a high lipid content carries a risk of atherosclerosis. However, it must be remembered that lipids are an integral part of a number of hormones, bile acids, and cell membranes. The functional significance of fats in the body is very high, so their deficiency is just as dangerous as their excess.

High density lipoproteins (HDL) involved in the formation of bile from cholesterol.

Cholesterol- the main fat in the blood, which partly comes from food, and partly synthesized by the liver. A high concentration of cholesterol indicates a risk of developing atherosclerosis.

Triglycerides- neutral fats of blood plasma.

Our clinic has specialists in this field.

(4 specialists)

2. What does lipid profile analysis show?

Lipid profile analysis helps to identify diseases of the cardiovascular system, liver and gallbladder, as well as to predict the risk of these diseases.

Studying the picture of the lipid profile, the doctor analyzes not only the absolute values ​​​​of HDL, LDL, triglycerides and cholesterol, but also how these indicators correlate with each other, since there is a complex mutual influence of the level of each component on the others.

Is considered dangerous increased levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins, since it is these components that form fatty deposits on the walls of blood vessels, thereby impeding blood flow through the circulatory system, complicating the work of the heart and disrupting the elasticity and patency of blood vessels.

Increased triglyceride concentration also quite dangerous. They carry the risk of stroke and diseases of the cardiovascular system. It is noticed that the concentration of triglycerides is high in patients with reduced thyroid function, liver disease, diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis.

high density lipoproteins On the contrary, they reduce the risk of developing heart disease. An increase in their concentration in the blood plasma cleanses the vessels, since HDL processes excess cholesterol into bile.

4. Preparation and analysis

To obtain objective results of a lipid profile analysis, before donating blood, it is necessary special training. Blood sampling is performed only in the morning on an empty stomach. The last meal before this can be no later than 12 hours. You can only drink water. It is recommended not to smoke for at least 2 hours before donating blood. The day before the analysis it is necessary to exclude the use of alcohol. Physical activity and stressful situations on the day before the study of the lipid profile are undesirable.

Blood for analysis is taken from a vein and sent to a biochemical laboratory. This study has no contraindications and no side effects. At the same time, its importance is great not only in terms of treating an already manifested disease, but also for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, which often develop gradually, almost imperceptibly. To all adults it is recommended to undergo a lipid profile study from time to time.

There is an opinion that cholesterol in the human body is a rather harmful substance. Many information sources advise to constantly reduce this indicator in the human body. It should be noted right away that this opinion is erroneous, since it is cholesterol that is involved in many life processes of human cells.

LDL is considered atherogenic while HDL is anti-atherogenic.

Surrounding people believe that there are two types of cholesterol - "good" and "bad" and with a strong excess in the body, it is deposited on the vascular walls and leads to disastrous consequences. Let's take a closer look at what a lipid profile is and what level of cholesterol is not only safe, but also necessary for the healthy functioning of the body. And also what laboratory test determines this indicator in the blood and its interpretation.

Cholesterol - what is it?

Cholesterol is a steroid or highly biologically active substance. It is produced to a greater extent in human liver cells, up to about 50%, about 20% is synthesized by the intestines. The rest of the cholesterol is synthesized by the adrenal glands, skin and gonads. And only up to 500 mg of cholesterol per day comes from food.

Cholesterol also has a number of functions. The most basic of them are the strengthening of the cell wall, the production of bile acids and the synthesis of steroid hormones.

LDL - the so-called "bad", in fact, this concept does not exist in the medical vocabulary, it is more a common name for low-density lipoprotein. And it is bad because with its excess and oxidation, it really settles on the inner wall of the vessel, closing its lumen. Therefore, it is imperative to control this indicator, especially if total cholesterol in the blood is elevated.

HDL can be lowered for a number of reasons, such as poor diet or bad habits.

Lipoproteins vary in size, density and lipid content

HDL - in everyday life is considered "good". It differs from low-density lipoprotein in its structure and functional features. Its main function is to cleanse the vascular wall from LDL. With a sufficiently high level of HDL or its norm, people are less prone to atherosclerotic diseases. If the HDL blood test reveals a significant decrease in them, then atherosclerosis is presumably diagnosed and additional studies are prescribed to confirm the diagnosis.

Lipid profile

This is a special biochemical blood test. The study includes the layout of lipids (fats) into individual components. With the help of this analysis, you can control the indicators and promptly turn to specialized medical care for any pathological abnormalities. This biochemical analysis includes:

1. Total cholesterol or cholesterol is one of the main indicators of the state of fat balance in the human body. Produced in liver cells.
2. HDL (high density lipoproteins) - deliver cholesterol to the liver from the vascular wall when it is in excess.
3. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) - is a carrier of cholesterol from the liver to the arteries, with an excess settles on the vascular wall.
4. TG (triglycerides) - neutral lipids.

Even with this study, the atherogenic coefficient (KA) is calculated, which determines the predisposition to atherosclerosis. The so-called ratio between HDL and LDL.

Indications for analysis

In some vascular diseases, the level of LDL in the blood increases significantly, this may indicate atherosclerosis and concomitant diseases. Most likely, total cholesterol will also be elevated. And the HDL index, which is responsible for the process of converting cholesterol into bile and removing cholesterol plaques from the walls of blood vessels, drops significantly in the blood.

A lipid profile is often prescribed when a risk of developing coronary heart disease is suspected.

A blood lipid profile test is prescribed for people who are in the "risk group" and have some of the following diseases:

• cardiac ischemia;
• liver and pancreas;
• chronic pancreatitis;
• obesity, foodborne;
• hyperthyroidism;
• alcoholism;
• myeloma;
• sepsis;
• gout.

Another lipid profile is prescribed for children, but also for certain diseases, for example, with diabetes mellitus or with a hereditary predisposition to impaired fat metabolism.

Analysis interpretation

Lipidogram allows you to detect lipid metabolism disorders

In medical practice, there are certain standards by which the lipid profile is assessed. It is also worth noting that blood biochemistry standards may vary slightly in different laboratories, this is due to the use of different kits and reagents for research. When deciphering the analysis, the weight and age of the patient are taken into account.

Only a doctor should deal with the interpretation of this laboratory test, it is he who will be able to correctly assess the situation and, if necessary, prescribe adequate and timely treatment. Also, the doctor must correlate the result of the analysis with the individual characteristics of the patient and his medical history. For example, a recent heart attack or medication.

What can cause an increase in LDL levels?

LDL can rise in some diseases of the kidneys and liver, due to an imbalance of HDL. And also risk factors for increasing "bad" cholesterol include: smoking, alcohol abuse, overeating, lack of physical activity or physical inactivity, bile stasis. To reduce or maintain LDL, you need to resort to a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition.

Preparation for analysis

Before donating blood for a lipid profile, you must refrain from eating for 12 hours

To obtain a correct and informative result of the analysis, a prerequisite on the part of the patient is preparation for it. Blood is taken from a vein and always on an empty stomach. Food must be abandoned 8 hours before delivery, and preferably for all 12. Dinner should be very light and consist mainly of fiber, exclude fatty meats, all types of sausages and smoked meats. Since this will lead to chileza in the blood serum and the analysis will be incorrect. You should also refrain from drinking coffee and alcohol the day before, do not smoke at least two hours before donating blood. If drugs are used, then it is better not to take them before taking the test. And if this is undesirable, then be sure to warn the doctor about their intake.

Why are lipids useful?

Lipid metabolism is very important for the healthy functioning of the human body. The main function of metabolism is the breakdown, assimilation and absorption of fats in the intestinal tract. A very important fact is that lipids are actively involved in the synthesis of male and female hormones. Therefore, any violation of the fat balance can lead to problems with the reproductive system. With normal lipid profile indicators, the adrenal glands produce a sufficient amount of vitamin D. Also, with violations of this indicator in the blood, human immunity is significantly reduced.

Often, doctors, in addition to standard examination methods, prescribe a lipid profile to patients with complaints of heart pain, shortness of breath, and blood pressure instability - what is it? A study or lipidogram is a laboratory diagnostic method that allows not only to identify the degree of current disorders of fat metabolism in the body, but also to suggest the risk of developing pathology of the heart muscle, blood vessels, as well as other complications of atherosclerosis.

The diagnostic value of this laboratory analysis is extremely high: the number of patients suffering from coronary heart disease and cerebral circulatory disorders is growing every year in the world. The cause of these diseases in 70-80% of cases is atherosclerosis - a multifactorial disorder of fat metabolism, provoking:

• deposition of cholesterol plaques on the internal intima of blood vessels;
• obstruction of normal blood flow;
• oxygen starvation of internal organs.

A lipidogram allows you to diagnose atherosclerosis or assess the risks of its development: we will consider what it is and what the cost of the procedure is below.

Who is assigned the analysis?

Blood lipidogram is an advanced examination method that allows you to get a detailed picture of lipid metabolism. Although some indicators of this diagnostic test can be considered as part of a biochemical blood test (for example, total cholesterol), only a specialized study can provide a complete laboratory picture.

Conducting a lipid profile is prescribed for:

• an increase in the level of lipoproteins, determined biochemically;
• complex examination of patients suffering from pathology of the heart, cerebral vessels, arterial hypertension;
• endocrine disorders;
• preventive examination of patients with an increased risk of developing myocardial infarction, cerebral stroke (for example, people with a family history of heart disease, smoking men and women over 55 years of age);
• examination of patients who have undergone an acute vascular accident;
• when prescribing lipid-lowering drugs;
• to monitor the effectiveness of therapeutic measures in all patients suffering from atherosclerosis.

What is included in the lipid spectrum of the blood?

This analysis includes 6 indicators, we will dwell on them in more detail.

• total cholesterol. Cholesterol is a monohydric fatty alcohol, mostly synthesized in the human body by liver cells. Twenty percent of the substance can come with food. Cholesterol performs many biologically important functions: it is part of the bioplasmic membrane of every cell of the human body, ensures its permeability to ions, active components of the intercellular fluid; makes the cell membrane stronger, more stable; participates in the production of mineralocorticosteroids, glucocorticosteroids, sex hormones by adrenal cells; protects erythrocytes (red blood cells) from the action of hemolytic poisons; is one of the components of bile synthesis. Since cholesterol is practically insoluble in water, it is transported in the blood by special carrier proteins - apolipoproteins. Depending on the density and saturation of apolipoproteins with fatty molecules, several fractions of cholesterol are isolated.
• HDL. (useful, "good" cholesterol) - the smallest fat particles, the size of which is only 8-11 nm (normal). Their main function is interaction with other lipoproteins and cells, collecting cholesterol, transporting it to the liver for further utilization. Thus, HDL "cleanses" the walls of blood vessels from fatty deposits, provides prevention of atherosclerosis.
• LDL. (bad, "bad" cholesterol) - large fatty particles 18-26 nm in size, which are saturated with fatty alcohols, but poor in protein. With the blood flow, they are transported throughout the body and easily give lipids to neighboring cells. LDL is the most atherogenic fraction of lipoproteins. They contribute to the formation of fatty plaques on the inner wall of blood vessels.
• VLDL. - another atherogenic class of cholesterol that transports fatty molecules to peripheral organs, provoking the deposition of lipids on the surface of the vascular wall. VLDL are large in size - their diameter reaches 30-80 nm. In addition, this class of lipoproteins predominantly consists of triglycerides.
• Triglycerides. Triglycerides are organic substances that make up the main energy reserve of the cell. With excessive intake of them with food, triglycerides form a large amount of VLDL - the main atherogenic fraction of cholesterol. A large amount of these substances is found in foods rich in animal fat: lard and fatty meat, butter, hard cheeses, egg yolk. Therefore, all patients suffering from atherosclerosis are advised to follow a plant-based diet, limiting the above meals.
• The atherogenic coefficient is a relative indicator that allows assessing the risk of cardiac, vascular, and cerebral complications of atherosclerosis in a patient with dyslipidemia. The value is calculated by the formula: KA = (OH - HDL) / HDL. Thus, the ratio of "bad" and "good" cholesterol fractions is determined, which must be in constant balance to maintain the constancy of the internal environment.

Tables of normal values ​​and risks

The lipid profile of a healthy person reflects a balanced ratio of all cholesterol fractions. The analysis rate is presented in the table below.

Also, depending on the lipid profile, it is possible to determine the risk of developing atherosclerosis and its cardiovascular complications, so the analysis should be deciphered by a specialist.

Note! Due to the difference in medical equipment used in laboratories, lipid profile norms may vary.

What are deviations from the norm?

Total cholesterol is the main indicator of analysis for. It reflects the level of all fractions of lipoproteins and is the first step in diagnosing disorders of fat metabolism.

An increase in total cholesterol almost always indicates a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease. It can be provoked:

• malnutrition, the use of large amounts of animal fats;
• hypodynamia, sedentary lifestyle;
• overweight;
• hereditary predisposition, cardiovascular diseases in blood relatives;
• smoking and alcohol abuse;
• old age: starting from the age of 20, due to a slowdown in metabolism, the level of cholesterol begins to rise, it reaches its maximum by the age of 70-75;
• concomitant diseases: diabetes mellitus, decreased thyroid function.

Note! Pregnancy, as well as any acute infectious or inflammatory disease, can trigger an increase in blood cholesterol. To obtain reliable results, repeat the examination 2-3 months after childbirth or recovery.

A decrease in the concentration of cholesterol in the blood serum may indicate:

• hyperthyroidism;
• liver diseases, accompanied by a violation of its synthetic activity, cirrhosis;
• fasting, strict vegetarian diet;
• malabsorption (impaired absorption of nutrients by intestinal cells);
• malignant form of anemia;
• sepsis, generalized infection;
• rheumatoid arthritis;
• chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Only a doctor can determine the cause and consequences of abnormal cholesterol levels during a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition.

HDL deviations

Experts associate a decrease in the concentration of useful cholesterol with the risk of atherosclerotic problems. It has been proven that every 0.13 mmol / l deviation from the average increases the possibility of developing coronary heart problems and acute coronary insufficiency by 25%.

Reasons for a decrease in HDL:

• chronic pathology of the kidneys and liver;
• endocrine disorders, diabetes mellitus;
• acute infections caused by viruses and bacteria.

An increase in HDL levels is said if it exceeds 2.2 mmol / l. Despite the fact that a high level of "good" cholesterol protects blood vessels from the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, such changes in the lipid profile are not always evaluated positively. Usually, an increase in HDL is associated with hereditary genetic abnormalities of fat metabolism.

Deviations of LDL and VLDL

Doctors note a direct relationship between an increase in the concentration of LDL, VLDL and the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

An increase in low molecular weight fractions of cholesterol can be caused by:

1. hereditary predisposition: in the group of increased attention of a person whose blood relatives suffered a heart attack, stroke or other acute vascular pathology under the age of 50 years;
2. diseases of the pancreas: pancreatitis, tumors, diabetes mellitus;
3. excessive consumption of animal fats with food;
4. obesity;
5. chronic renal failure;
6. metabolic disorders, gout;
7. hormonal changes, pregnancy.

Reducing the concentration of "bad" cholesterol is rare. With a generally normal lipid profile, this reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis.

Triglyceride Abnormalities

Lack of HDL, the "good" cholesterol, leads to an increase in triglycerides. In addition, an increase in the concentration of the triglyceride fraction of fats occurs when:

• arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction;
• atherosclerosis;
• chronic kidney disease;
• thrombosis of the arteries of the brain;
• viral hepatitis B, C, cirrhosis of the liver;
• gout, other metabolic diseases;
• thalassemia, Down's disease;
• increased levels of calcium in the blood;
• chronic pancreatitis, alcoholism.

Triglycerides have a great influence on the formation of cholesterol plaques, the development of atherosclerosis.

A decrease in triglycerides is observed in: chronic obstructive pulmonary pathologies, cerebral infarction, hyperthyroidism, myasthenia gravis, burns, injuries, malnutrition.

Atherogenic coefficient

Since the coefficient of atherogenicity is a relative value that evaluates the prognosis for the development of atherosclerosis and its complications, its determination is considered the most important. An increase in CA is observed with an imbalance of lipids in the body associated with an increase in the concentration of "bad" and a decrease in "good" cholesterol. The higher this indicator, the more likely acute cardiovascular and cerebral problems in the patient.

Preparation for the survey

There is no special preparation for the examination. Experts advise to observe the following rules:

1. Since the lipid spectrum analysis is taken strictly on an empty stomach, the last meal should be approximately 12 hours before blood sampling (minimum 8, maximum 14). Juices, tea, coffee are also considered food, so you will have to refrain from them. With strong thirst, pure mineral water is allowed.
2. For a reliable result, you should not drastically go on a diet: eat as usual for two weeks before the examination. If on the eve of the test you have a big feast, move the trip to the laboratory for 2-3 days.
3. Do not drink alcohol at least a day before the study.
4. Since the level of fats in the blood is subject to fluctuations, it is advisable to donate blood for a lipid profile in the morning, from 8 to 10 hours.
5. Do not smoke one hour before blood sampling.
6. If possible, exclude factors that affect the result of the examination: exhausting physical activity, overwork, psycho-emotional experiences, stress.
7. Before taking blood, it is recommended to take a breath and sit quietly for 10-15 minutes.
8. You can not donate blood after R-examination, sigmoidoscopy, physiotherapy procedures.
9. To control the treatment of atherosclerosis with the help of prescribed lipid-lowering agents, it is not necessary to stop taking the tablets.

For the study, 2-5 ml of venous blood is taken, which is centrifuged and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The result is usually prepared within a day. With diagnosed atherosclerosis, experts advise patients to donate blood for a lipid profile at least 1-2 times a year.

Thus, the lipid profile is a study that is desirable for all patients with atherosclerosis and other disorders of fat metabolism. Low invasiveness, painlessness, high efficiency and the ability to assess prognostic risks allow us to consider this laboratory analysis as the main method for diagnosing dyslipidemia in humans.

Atherosclerosis and diseases of the cardiovascular system are very dangerous conditions for humans. You can assess the risk of their occurrence using a blood test for a lipid profile or a lipid profile. What is a lipid profile in a blood test is the subject of today's article. This study carries very important information about the health of the subject. It is recommended to donate blood for this analysis at least once every 5 years. In fact, this frequency is indicated for a healthy person. People with a hereditary predisposition or risk factors for diseases of the heart and blood vessels should be tested more often.

It is very important to monitor the level of triglycerides and other indicators for overweight people, for this it is enough to donate blood for a lipid profile.

Atherogenic coefficient

This is a calculated indicator that equals:

CA \u003d (LDL + VLDL) / HDL

The numerators indicate representatives of "bad" cholesterol, and the denominators - "good". Accordingly, the more this coefficient exceeds the norm, the worse the state of the cardiovascular system.

Preparation for analysis

Just like other blood tests, this test involves some preparation:

• No food intake 12 hours before analysis;
• Lack of exercise and emotional stress half an hour before analysis;
• Abstinence from smoking for half an hour before the analysis;
• Reception on the eve of the same food that you are used to, but without especially fatty foods.

Blood is taken from a vein; when preparing for a lipid profile, it should also be taken into account that taking certain medications, pregnancy, a long-term diet, or existing diseases can affect the result. Therefore, it is important to report all these factors to the doctor when deciphering the analysis.

The norm of indicators in adults

Of course, in order to evaluate the obtained blood counts, it is necessary to know the norm for each of them. It is best to clarify these data in the laboratory in which you donated blood, because they may have minor errors due to the equipment. The optimal values ​​also depend on the gender and age of the patient. On average, the norm for each indicator of the lipid profile is as follows:

• KA: 2.1-3.6;
• Triglycerides:<2,25 ммоль/л;
• Total cholesterol:<5,3 ммоль/л;
• HDL: 1.02-1.56 mmol/l;
• LDL:<3,2 ммоль/л;
• VLDL:<1,62 ммоль/л.

If you still have any questions about what kind of analysis this is - a lipid profile, ask them in the comments below. You can find more detailed information on each of the indicators in a separate article.