Lipid Profile Tests are a group of tests that determine the type of lipids present in the blood.
Types of Lipid
Cholesterol
Triglycerides
HDL High Density Lipoprotein
LDL Low Density Lipoprotein
VLDL Very Low Density Lipoprotein
Introduction to Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in every cell of the human body.
It is essential for various physiological functions, including the production of hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods, such as bile acids.
While cholesterol is vital for health, having too much of certain types can increase the risk of heart disease.
Sources of Cholesterol:
- Endogenous Production: The liver produces most of the cholesterol your body needs.
- Dietary Intake: It also comes from animal-based foods such as meat, dairy, and eggs.
Functions
Cholesterol is a fatty and waxy substance present in our body.
It is synthesized from the Liver in large amounts, but in the small intestine ( Small amount).
It helps in the Production of steroid hormones and Vitamin D.
Formation of the Cell membrane, Bile acids, and Bile salts.
Estimation of Cholesterol
Specimen: Serum ( 10-12 Hrs of Fasting)
Methods: Chemical Methods
- Abell Kendall Method
2. Zak reaction – Libermann Burchard reaction or LB reaction.
Principle: Cholesterol reacts with Acetic anhydride in the presence of glacial acetic acid and sulfuric acid, giving a blue-green solution.
Enzymatic Method: CHOD-POD Method or Cholesterol Oxidase Peroxidase Method
Principle: Cholesterol esters + H2O + Esterase Cholesterol + Fatty acid
Free Cholesterol + Oxidase 4cholesterene 3 one +H2O2
H2O2 + 4 aminoantiphenazone + Peroxidase Red coloured dye
Normal Value: 150-240 mg/dl.
Clinical Significance:
Increased Level of Cholesterol – Hypercholesterolemia Conditions
- Atherosclerosis
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypothyroidism
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Alcoholism
Decreased level of Cholesterol – Hypocholesterolemia Conditions
- Hyperthyrodism
- malabsorption
- Hepatocellular damage
Health Implications:
Maintaining a healthy balance of cholesterol is crucial. High LDL and low HDL levels are associated with a greater risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.
Lifestyle changes and medications may be necessary to manage cholesterol levels.