Cholesterol assays are used for screening for atherosclerotic risk and in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders involving elevated cholesterol levels as well as lipid and lipoprotein metabolic disorders. Cholesterol is reported as a lipid profile alongside triglyceride and HDL-cholesterol, as well as calculated LDL-cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol.
The recovery of cholesterol may be falsely low when the blood sample is taken while levels of NAC, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI, paracetemol metabolite), and Metamizole (Novaminsulfone, Dipyrone) are present. Venipuncture should be performed prior to the administration of Metamizole. Venipuncture immediately after or during the administration of Metamizole may lead to falsely low results.
This test may require the patient to be in a fasting state. For a fasting state the patient should refrain from any foods or liquids other than water for 8hrs.
Contact Consultant Chemical Pathologist for further information
See also NICE Clinical Guideline 181 (Lipid modification: cardiovascular risk assessment and the modification of blood lipids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease) for guidance
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