LDL — Normal Range & Interpretation

Clinical Context

LDL cholesterol measures low-density lipoprotein, the particle that delivers cholesterol to peripheral tissues and drives atherosclerotic plaque formation. Clinicians use LDL as the primary target for lipid-lowering therapy because it correlates directly with cardiovascular risk. Goals shift based on patient risk: under 100 mg/dL for the general population, under 70 mg/dL for those with established ASCVD or diabetes, and under 55 mg/dL for very high-risk patients.

Elevated LDL reflects genetic conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia, diets high in saturated and trans fats, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, cholestatic liver disease, and medications including corticosteroids, thiazides, and certain antiretrovirals. Low LDL appears with hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, chronic liver disease, malnutrition, and statin or PCSK9 inhibitor therapy. NPs address elevated LDL through lifestyle counseling, statin initiation based on ASCVD risk scoring, and evaluation for secondary causes.

FNPs see LDL on the boards most often in questions on thresholds tied to risk categories, particularly the 70 mg/dL target for patients with diabetes or known cardiovascular disease. Expect questions on statin indications, the link between LDL and ASCVD risk calculation, screening intervals starting at age 20, and recognition of familial hypercholesterolemia when LDL exceeds 190 mg/dL. Know that hypothyroidism must be ruled out before starting statin therapy.

Related Labs

• Total Cholesterol — mg/dL
• HDL — mg/dL
• Triglycerides — mg/dL

Sources

• MedlinePlus