LDL Calculated

Formula

Pearls / Pitfalls

Remember, triglycerides should only be calculated when fasting. The Friedewald formula, on which this calculator is based, is known to be inaccurate at extremes of triglycerides and total cholesterol ( Cordova 2004 ).

Advice

Patients with elevated cholesterol may have success with diet and exercise, however those with other cardiovascular risk factors may require medication to reduce levels significantly. LDL targets: “Very” high risk: guidelines suggest <70mg/dL may be a reasonable option, but data may suggest there is little incremental benefit to this extreme but with high associated cost. High risk: (known CAD, known other atherosclerotic disease, diabetes, etc): <100 mg/dL. Moderate risk: (>1 risk factor*): <130 mg/dL. Lower risk: (0-1 risk factors): <160 mg/dL. From NCEP 2004 Guidelines . *Risk factors include diabetes, cigarette smoking, HTN (BP 140/90 mm Hg or on antihypertensive medication), low HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dL), and family history of premature CAD (CAD in male first-degree relative, or father <55 years, or female first-degree relative or mother <65 years).

More Information

Interpretation: LDL Level, mg/dL Interpretation <100 Optimal 100-129 Near optimal/above optimal 130-159 Borderline high 160-189 High ≥190 Very high From ATP III Guidelines . LDL targets: “Very” high risk: guidelines suggest <70mg/dL may be a reasonable option, but data may suggest there is little incremental benefit to this extreme but with high associated cost. High risk: (known CAD, known other atherosclerotic disease, diabetes, etc): <100 mg/dL. Moderate risk: (>1 risk factor*): <130 mg/dL. Lower risk: (0-1 risk factors): <160 mg/dL. From NCEP 2004 Guidelines . *Risk factors include diabetes, cigarette smoking, HTN (BP 140/90 mm Hg or on antihypertensive medication), low HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dL), and family history of premature CAD (CAD in male first-degree relative, or father <55 years, or female first-degree relative or mother <65 years).