The level of low density lipoproteins is normal. LDL cholesterol analysis: what is LDL in a biochemical blood test LDL cholesterol analysis: what is LDL in a biochemical blood test

Most people hold the dangerous misconception that cholesterol is a very unhealthy substance. Whereas, in fact, our body cannot exist without cholesterol, which it produces itself. Cholesterol is involved in almost all metabolic processes, including in the synthesis of human sex hormones. Without cholesterol, the normal activity of any organ and system is impossible. But since cholesterol is insoluble in water, it moves around the body as part of special formations - lipoproteins. They have different densities. Lipoproteins high density, this is good cholesterol, which is delivered to its destination without delay. But low-density lipoproteins are harmful compounds that cling to the walls of blood vessels and form on them atherosclerotic plaques. But there are also very low density lipoproteins, or VLDL. That's what we'll talk about today.

Very low density lipoproteins are also carriers of cholesterol. But besides it, they contain another type of fat - triglycerides. This is the most common type contained in human body fats and one of the main sources of energy. After very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) have transferred the triglycerides contained in them to the muscles and organs for their intended purpose, they turn into low density lipoproteins (LDL), the precursors of which they are in essence.

VLDL norm. Result interpretation (table)

A blood test for the content of VLDL, as a rule, is never performed separately, but always only as part of the overall lipid profile of the body. Blood lipidogram is assigned in the following cases:

• when referring to a doctor for men over 45 years of age and women over 55 years of age,
• when determining elevated levels of total cholesterol,
• with high blood pressure,
• after myocardial infarction or a stroke
• if the patient has been diagnosed ischemic disease hearts,
• if the patient is diabetic,
• The patient is diagnosed with obesity
• the patient abuses alcohol,
• is a smoker
• leads sedentary image life.

Cholesterol levels should also be regularly checked for those people in whose family cases of atherosclerosis or related diseases of the heart and blood vessels have already been noted. An increase in cholesterol may well be hereditary factor which leads to such diseases. If there were cases in the family similar diseases already in young age, then it is recommended to do a lipid profile for a child already, starting from 2 years.

Blood is taken from a vein, strictly on an empty stomach, in the morning. It is recommended not to eat for 12-14 hours before the test. The concentration of very low density lipoproteins in the blood can vary and is not always an objective indicator of the true level of total cholesterol. Therefore, it is recommended to re-test within three months.

In accordance with accepted international standards VLDL content in the blood ordinary people and pregnant women:

If VLDL is elevated - what does it mean

As a rule, the content of very low density lipoproteins in the human body is lower than the content of low density lipoproteins. The increase in their concentration occurs proportionally and for the same reasons, namely:

• reduced function thyroid gland- hypothyroidism,
• cholestasis is an inflammatory process in gallbladder caused by stagnation of bile, for example due to the presence of calculi or liver disease,
• chronic kidney failure,
• nephrotic syndrome and chronic inflammatory process in the kidneys,
• malignant tumor pancreas,
• malignant tumor of the prostate.

An increase in low-density lipoprotein levels can also be caused by obesity or excessive alcohol consumption. Violation of lipid metabolism in the body can also be hereditary.

An increase in very low density lipoprotein levels is dangerous factor talking about high risk development of atherosclerosis in a patient concomitant diseases.

If VLDL is lowered - what does it mean

Lowering the level of very low density lipoproteins in the blood, as a rule, is not of clinical interest and is not used for diagnosis. However, it can also indicate the presence of certain diseases, namely:

• increased function thyroid gland - hypothyroidism,
• oncological diseases hematopoietic systems,
• liver disease,
• extensive burns,
• inflammatory diseases joints,
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
• lack of vitamin B12 in the body,
• deficit folic acid,
• acute inflammatory process in the body.

A decrease in the concentration of low-density lipoprotein may be hereditary. Intensive physical exercise or the use of some medicines- statins, erythromycin, estrogens.

Unlike the level of low-density lipoprotein, the level of very-low-density lipoprotein during pregnancy does not increase, but decreases.

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cholesterol- fat-like substance necessary for the body. It helps to educate cell membranes all organs and tissues of the body. Based on cholesterol, hormones are created that are involved in the growth, development of the body and the implementation of the reproduction function. In addition, cholesterol is formed from bile acids, which are part of bile, thanks to them fats are absorbed in the intestines.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water, therefore, in order to move around the body, it is “packed” into a shell consisting of special proteins - apolipoproteins. The resulting complex (cholesterol + apolipoprotein) is called lipoprotein. Several types of lipoproteins circulate in the blood, differing in the proportions of their constituent components:

• very low density lipoproteins (VLDL),
• low density lipoproteins (LDL),
• high density lipoproteins (HDL).

Very low density lipoprotein cholesterol is one of the most aggressive types of cholesterol. With an excess of VLDL cholesterol, it is deposited on the walls of blood vessels in the form of plaques, which can limit the movement of blood through the vessel. In addition, they make the vessels more rigid (atherosclerosis), which significantly increases the risk of heart disease (coronary disease, heart attack) and stroke.

In addition, VLDL are the main carriers in the body of another type of fat - triglycerides. Elevated levels of triglycerides also contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.

The liver produces enough cholesterol and triglycerides for the needs of the body, but some of these fats come from food, mainly from meat and dairy products. If a person has a hereditary predisposition to high cholesterol and triglycerides, or if he eats too much cholesterol-containing food, then the level of cholesterol in the blood can rise and cause harm to the body.

What is analysis used for?

A test for VLDL cholesterol, along with other tests included in the lipid profile, is necessary in order to assess the risk of developing atherosclerosis and heart problems. Atherosclerosis is the process of plaque growth inside the vessels, which can limit blood flow through the vessel or completely block its lumen.
Besides, this study may be used to monitor the effectiveness of a reduced animal fat diet and to monitor blood lipid levels after administration of cholesterol-lowering drugs.

When is an analysis scheduled?

VLDL is usually included in the lipid profile, along with the determination of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and atherogenic coefficient. Lipidogram can be prescribed for planned preventive examinations or with an increase in total cholesterol, in order to find out due to which particular type its concentration is increased.

A lipid profile is recommended for all adults over 20 at least once every 5 years. It may also be given more frequently (several times a year) if the person is on a low-fat diet and/or is taking cholesterol-lowering medications. In these cases, it is checked whether the patient reaches the target level of lipid values ​​and, accordingly, whether his risk of cardiovascular diseases is reduced.

Increased VLDL cholesterol levels
An increase in the concentration of VLDL cholesterol may be the result of hereditary predisposition(familial hypercholesterolemia) or excessive dietary intake of animal fats. For most people with high cholesterol, both causes are involved to some extent.
Other possible reasons increasing VLDL:

• cholestasis - stagnation of bile, which can be caused by liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis) or gallstones,
• chronic inflammation kidneys leading to nephrotic syndrome
• chronic renal failure,
• decreased thyroid function (hypothyroidism),
• poorly treated diabetes mellitus,
• alcoholism,
• obesity,
• prostate or pancreatic cancer.

Decreased VLDL cholesterol levels

• A low LDL-C level has no particular clinical significance, it can be observed at following states:
• hereditary hypocholesterolemia,
• serious disease liver,
• oncological diseases bone marrow,
• increased thyroid function (hyperthyroidism),
• inflammatory joint diseases,
• B12- or folate deficiency anemia,
• common burns,
• acute diseases, acute infections,
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

What can influence the result?

The amount of VLDL cholesterol can change from time to time, so its one-time measurement does not always reflect the “usual” cholesterol level. In this regard, sometimes it is required to retake the analysis after 1-3 months.

It happens that the level of VLDL cholesterol rises or falls within a short period of time. This phenomenon is called biological variation and reflects the normal fluctuations in cholesterol metabolism in the body.

Increase the level of VLDL cholesterol:

• pregnancy (lipidogram should be done at least 6 weeks after child birth),
• prolonged fasting,
• change blood standing,
• anabolic steroid, androgens, corticosteroids,
• smoking,
• intake of food containing animal fats.

Reduce the level of VLDL cholesterol:

• being in lying position,
• allopurinol, clofibrate, colchicine, antifungal drugs, statins, cholestyramine, erythromycin, estrogens,
• diet low in cholesterol and saturated fatty acids and vice versa high content polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The risk of developing cardiovascular disease is increased by:

• smoking,
• age (men over 45, women over 55)
• promotion blood pressure(140/90 mm Hg and above),
• high cholesterol or cardiovascular diseases in other family members (heart attack or stroke in the closest male relative under 55, female under 65),
• ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction or stroke,
• diabetes,
• overweight body,
• alcohol abuse,
• reception a large number foods containing animal fats
• low physical activity.

Preparation for the study: do not eat 12 hours before the test, exclude physical and emotional overstrain and do not smoke for 30 minutes before donating blood.

Period of execution: 1 business day

The cholesterol level in healthy person should be within the normal range. With an increase or decrease in the level of lipoproteins in the blood, it is necessary to identify the disease and begin its treatment. That is why many doctors give Special attention analysis of LDL cholesterol.

Everyone knows that high blood cholesterol is bad. But what kind of cholesterol, and what types of it are there?

Cholesterol, which is distributed through the blood to the organs, is associated with proteins. After all, it is thanks to proteins that cholesterol is able to move in liquids. There are several types of such compounds:

• HDL - high density lipoproteins;
• LDL - low density lipoproteins;
• VLDL - lipoproteins with a very low density, it is from them that the liver produces the so-called bad cholesterol;
• LPPP - lipoproteins with intermediate density.

When the balance of bad and good cholesterol, with an upward shift in LDL, diseases of the heart and blood vessels develop or worsen.

When to check LDL levels

The level of ldl cholesterol (bad lipoprotein) should be checked for all people over the age of thirty at least once every 5 years. However, there are cases when an extraordinary study is indicated:

1. Taking medications to lower LDL levels.
2. Pathology of the liver.
3. Diseases of the heart muscle and blood vessels.
4. Use fatty foods a lot.
5. Men over 40 and women over 50.
6. Patients with a history of myocardial infarction or stroke.
7. Persistent hypertension with pressure values ​​over 135/85 mm Hg. Art.
8. If hypercholesterolemia (increased LDL levels) has already been detected in a blood test earlier.
9. hereditary predisposition.
10. Drinking alcoholic beverages, smoking.
11. Availability excess weight body.
12. Sedentary lifestyle.
13. In the presence of diabetes.

Proper preparation for a blood test

To determine the level different types cholesterol, a biochemical blood test is performed. This kind laboratory research you can go to the clinic or in any paid laboratory, at the discretion of the patient. Blood is taken from a vein.

In order for the indicators to be correct, it is necessary to prepare for blood donation in accordance with all the rules:

1. Blood for analysis is taken in the morning on an empty stomach. You can eat 12 hours before the test.
2. For some time before the study, it is necessary to abandon fatty foods and fried food.
3. Alcohol and smoking should also be avoided for a few days. Do not smoke immediately before the test.
4. Within one or two weeks before blood sampling, exclude excessive physical activity (active and power types sports).

Lipidogram

What is a lipid profile? These are analytical data on the content of lipoproteins in the blood serum. It includes the following indicators:

• total cholesterol estimated at without fail, its level depends on the gender and age of patients;
• HDL - anti-atherogenic fraction (good cholesterol), it prevents the development of atherosclerotic plaques in the vessels;
• LDL is an atherogenic fraction (bad cholesterol), an increase in its concentration is a sign of an existing or developing pathology;
• the atherogenic coefficient is obtained as a result of the ratio of good and bad lipoprotein;
• triglycerides are involved in the transport of lipids.

Indicator changes

If any indicator in the lipid profile deviated from the norm, this may indicate various pathologies or become a signal for preventive measures.

What do abnormal triglycerides indicate?

1. With an increase in the level of this substance to 2.3 or more mmol / l, they indicate the presence of diseases such as coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis various vessels. Another reason is the presence of diabetes in the patient.
2. The borderline value, from 2.0 to 2.3 mmol / l, is a consequence of a deterioration in health. Although atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease are not yet expressed characteristic symptoms, but their development has already begun. The period of asymptomatic course of pathology.
3. The norm of triglycerides is 1.9 mmol / l and less.

HDL can also be either low or high:

1. decline this indicator(in men up to 1.15 mmol/l or less, in women 0.8 mmol/l and below) is clear sign the presence of pathology of the heart (ischemic disease) and blood vessels (atherosclerosis).
2. Borderline indicators: for men - from 1.15 to 1.67 mmol / l; for women - from 0.8 to 1.35 mmol / l. These values ​​are indicators of the development of the above pathologies of the cardiovascular system.
3. The high content of good lipoprotein reduces the likelihood of coronary disease and myocardial infarction.

What do LDL levels indicate?

1. The presence of diseases such as coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis is detected at rates of 4.8 mmol / l or more.
2. If a LDL level from 4 to 4.8 mmol / l, then, most likely, the pathology of the cardiovascular system develops in the body.
3. The norm is considered to be below 3 mmol / l.

total cholesterol:

1. Normal values ​​​​are considered to be from 3.1 to 5.1 mmol / l.
2. If the total cholesterol is above 6.2 mmol / l, then the pathology of the heart and blood vessels already exists.
3. If the values ​​are in the range from 5.2 to 6.2, then the risk of pathology increases.

Signs of an increase in bad lipoprotein in the blood

On the initial stage hypercholesterolemia, a person may not notice any changes in their health. However, the heart and blood vessels are already beginning to suffer:

1. The vascular wall loses its elasticity and firmness. The longer cholesterol does not decrease, the more the vessels suffer. Eventually, they become brittle.
2. Education is going on cholesterol plaques that obstruct blood flow. Concerning internal organs start to starve. As a result, atherosclerosis develops.
3. Blood clots are formed, which at any time can come off and clog the vessel.
4. The risk of myocardial necrosis, that is, myocardial infarction, increases.

If treatment is not carried out, then the person begins to feel various kinds of ailments:

• headache;
• dyspnea;
• dizziness;
• heartbeat.

A complication of this condition can be an embolism of the vessels of vital organs:

1. Blockage of cerebral vessels (ONMK).
2. Thromboembolism pulmonary artery(TELA).
3. When blocked coronary arteries myocardial infarction occurs.

All these pathological conditions require emergency medical attention and are common cause lethal outcome in patients with increased level cholesterol.

What can affect performance

It may happen that the results of the analysis for cholesterol were incorrect. For example, indicators are inflated, but there are no other signs of pathological changes in the heart and blood vessels of a person is not. When it's possible?

1. If on the eve of the study a person broke the diet and ate foods rich in lipids of animal origin.
2. Cholelithiasis.
3. Hypothyroidism.
4. Cholestasis (stagnation of bile for various reasons).
5. Long-term use of hormonal and antibacterial drugs.
6. pathology of the kidneys chronic course inflammatory process.
7. Disease of the pancreas (diabetes).
8. hereditary factor.
9. A woman has an increase in LDL levels during pregnancy.
10. Postponed severe stress or psycho-emotional stress.
11. In the postoperative period.
12. Recent cardiac stenting can also cause increased rates.

In some cases, rates may increase due to physiological characteristics patient. Therefore, when in doubt, re-holding laboratory research.

A second blood test is performed after 14 to 28 days.

Normalization of indicators

Lipidogram indicators can signal the development of pathology. In this case, it is quite realistic to normalize the indicators and cope with initial stage diseases (coronary heart disease, atherosclerotic plaques) and prevent the development of such a serious pathology as myocardial infarction.

Preventive actions:

1. Proper nutrition. Avoid fatty and sugary foods.
2. Moderate physical activity increases good cholesterol and lowers LDL levels.
3. Get rid of bad habits because they negatively affect the entire body.
4. Avoid stressful situations.
5. Carry out all doctor's orders.

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