Lab Name:
Low Density Lipoprotein
What is Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) in terms of Nursing Labs?
Cholesterol is transported via lipoproteins. There are multiple types of lipoproteins and they each have slightly different functions: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein, LDL, very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). LDL cholesterol is considered bad cholesterol because as it travels through the blood, it deposits cholesterol into the lining of blood vessels, causing atherosclerosis and an increase in cardiovascular disease.
What are the Indications for Low Density Lipoprotein ?
- Useful in determining risk of cardiovascular disease.
What would cause increased levels of Low Density Lipoprotein ?
- Diet high in saturated fats
- Nephrotic Syndrome
- Alcoholism
- Chronic liver disease:
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Hypothyroidism
- Cushings Syndrome
What would cause decreased levels of Low Density Lipoprotein ?
- Regular physical activity
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypoproteinemia:
- Malabsorption
- Severe burns
- Malnutrition
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Date Published - Jul 5, 2016
Date Modified - Jun 17, 2019
