HDL stands for high density lipoprotein, a form of "good" cholesterol. Lipoproteins are proteins in the blood that move cholesterol, triglycerides, and other fats, called lipids, to various parts of the body.

This article discusses the blood test used to measure levels of HDL cholesterol in your blood.

See also:

• LDL test ("bad" cholesterol)
• Lipid profile
• High blood cholesterol and triglycerides
• Total cholesterol test

High-density lipoprotein test

A blood sample is needed.

Blood is typically drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.

Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm.

Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

Do not eat anything for 9 - 12 hours before the test.

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.