What it measures
The cholesterol carried by very-low-density lipoprotein, the particles that carry triglycerides made in the liver. It is rarely measured directly. Most labs estimate it from the triglyceride result.
Why people test it
- Reported in some cholesterol profiles as part of the cholesterol that is not HDL.
- Used to work out LDL cholesterol when LDL is calculated rather than measured.
- Looked at by people tracking their triglyceride and cholesterol results.
Typical range
Ranges vary by lab, method, age and sex, and your report shows the lab's own range. Labs stop using the estimate when triglycerides are very high, because it becomes unreliable.
Finger-prick or vein?
A finger-prick sample is usually fine, as the lipid tests work on small samples. Providers offer both finger-prick kits and vein draws.
It is worked out from triglycerides, which rise after eating, so some providers ask for a fasting sample.