VLDL (Very Low‑Density Lipoprotein) is one of the major lipoproteins that transport triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood.

Elevated VLDL levels are associated with atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and metabolic syndrome.

Clinical uses include:

Assessing cardiovascular risk.

Monitoring patients with hyperlipidemia, diabetes, or obesity.

Supporting evaluation of metabolic disorders and liver disease.

VLDL cholesterol is often calculated indirectly from triglyceride levels (VLDL ≈ triglycerides ÷ 5).

Analyte: VLDL cholesterol in serum (mg/dL).

Normal Range (varies by lab): ~5–40 mg/dL.

Abnormal Findings:

High VLDL (>40 mg/dL): Indicates increased risk of heart disease, metabolic syndrome, or hypertriglyceridemia.

Low VLDL: Rare, but may occur with malnutrition or certain lipid disorders.

Clinical Use:

Provides a marker of triglyceride‑rich lipoproteins.

Helps guide diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of lipid disorders.

Supports cardiology, endocrinology, and internal medicine evaluations.