Ulta Lab Tests

Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Chem 12, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, CMP, Complete Metabolic Panel, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP, SMA 12, SMA 20

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood.

Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) is calculated from measured albumin and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin). Normally, there is a little more albumin than globulins, giving a normal A/G ratio of slightly over 1. Because disease states affect the relative amounts of albumin and globulin, the A/G ratio may provide a clue as to the cause of the change in protein levels. A low A/G ratio may reflect overproduction of globulins, such as seen in multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases, or underproduction of albumin, such as may occur with cirrhosis, or selective loss of albumin from the circulation, as may occur with kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome). A high A/G ratio suggests underproduction of immunoglobulins as may be seen in some genetic deficiencies and in some leukemias. More specific tests, such as liver enzyme tests and serum protein electrophoresis, must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. With a low total protein that is due to plasma expansion (dilution of the blood), the A/G ratio will typically be normal because both albumin and globulin will be diluted to the same extent.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone.

Alt

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver. Injury to the liver results in release of the substance into the blood.

AST

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in liver, heart, and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bun/Creatinine Ratio

A ratio between a person’s BUN and blood creatinine to help determine what is causing these concentrations to be higher than normal. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is usually between 10:1 and 20:1. An increased ratio may be due to a condition that causes a decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as congestive heart failure or dehydration. It may also be seen with increased protein, from gastrointestinal bleeding, or increased protein in the diet. The ratio may be decreased with liver disease (due to decrease in the formation of urea) and malnutrition.

Calcium

You have more calcium in your body than any other mineral. Calcium has many important jobs. The body stores more than 99 percent of its calcium in the bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong. The rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and the fluid between cells. Your body needs calcium to help muscles and blood vessels contract and expand, to secrete hormones and enzymes and to send messages through the nervous system.

Carbon Dioxide

CO2 is carbon dioxide. Measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3-). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level.

Chloride

Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body's acid-base balance. This is a measure of the amount of chloride in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood.

Creatinine

The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys work.

Egfr African American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

Egfr Non-Afr. American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

GFR-AFRICAN AMERICAN

GFR-NON AFRICAN AMERICAN

Globulin

Globulins is the collective term for most blood proteins other than albumin. Identifying the types of globulins can help diagnose certain disorders. Globulins are roughly divided into three groups: alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulines include various types of antibodies such as immunoglobulins (Ig) M, G, and A.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to work normally. It helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Protein, Total

The total protein is the total amount of two classes of proteins, albumin and globulin that are found in the fluid portion of your blood. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Your albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and your globulins are an important part of your immune system.

Sodium

Sodium is a substance that the body needs to work properly it is vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function

Urea Nitrogen (Bun)

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Also known as: CK (Total), CPK, CPK (Total), Creatine Kinase CK Total, Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK), Total CK

Creatine Kinase, Total

Also known as: Lipid Panel with Ratios (fasting), Lipid Profile with Ratios (fasting), Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

LDL/HDL Ratio

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.
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The Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel panel contains 3 tests with 29 biomarkers .

Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel

The Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular and metabolic health by analyzing key markers related to cholesterol levels, kidney and liver function, and muscle enzyme activity. This panel is often ordered to monitor lipid levels, assess organ function, and evaluate potential risks associated with heart disease, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. By examining these biomarkers, healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into a patient's overall health status and make informed decisions regarding treatment, lifestyle modifications, and further diagnostic testing.

When and Why the Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel May Be Ordered

This panel is typically ordered for individuals who have been diagnosed with high cholesterol or other cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. It may also be used to monitor patients who are undergoing cholesterol-lowering treatments, such as statins, to ensure that the medication is effectively managing lipid levels without causing adverse effects on liver function or muscle health. In addition, healthcare providers may order this panel for individuals who have experienced unexplained muscle pain, fatigue, or weakness, as certain cholesterol medications can impact muscle enzyme levels. Routine monitoring of kidney and liver function is also crucial, as these organs play essential roles in lipid metabolism and the elimination of waste products from the body.

What the Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel Checks For

The Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel examines various biomarkers that provide insight into cardiovascular health, metabolic function, and potential medication side effects. Each test in the panel serves a specific purpose in evaluating the patient's overall well-being.

Lipid Profile and Cholesterol Levels

The lipid profile measures total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides. These values help determine the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The LDL/HDL ratio provides additional insight into the balance between "bad" and "good" cholesterol, which is essential for assessing cardiovascular risk.

Kidney and Liver Function

Liver and kidney function are evaluated through various metabolic markers. The liver plays a crucial role in cholesterol production and metabolism, while the kidneys help regulate blood pressure and remove waste from the bloodstream. Abnormalities in these functions can indicate underlying health issues that need further investigation.

Muscle Enzyme Activity

Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in muscle tissue, and elevated levels may indicate muscle damage or inflammation. This is particularly important for patients taking statins or other cholesterol-lowering medications, as these drugs can sometimes cause muscle-related side effects. By analyzing these key biomarkers, healthcare professionals can assess cardiovascular risk, detect metabolic imbalances, and monitor the effects of cholesterol-lowering treatments.

Conditions and Diseases the Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel Can Detect

This panel can help diagnose and monitor various conditions related to cardiovascular and metabolic health. Below are some of the primary conditions that can be detected using the Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel.

Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. High LDL cholesterol increases the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease, while low HDL cholesterol levels reduce the body's ability to remove excess cholesterol. The lipid panel in this test helps diagnose hyperlipidemia and determine whether dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, or medication are needed.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis occurs when cholesterol and other substances accumulate in the arteries, forming plaques that can restrict blood flow. Over time, this condition can lead to serious cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. The lipid panel provides essential data on cholesterol levels and helps identify individuals at risk for developing atherosclerosis.

Liver Disease

The liver plays a central role in cholesterol metabolism. Conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or liver dysfunction can disrupt cholesterol levels and impact overall metabolic health. Abnormal metabolic panel results may indicate liver disease, prompting further testing and evaluation.

Kidney Disease

Kidney function is closely linked to cardiovascular health, as the kidneys help regulate blood pressure and remove waste from the body. Impaired kidney function can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The metabolic panel helps assess kidney health and detect early signs of kidney disease.

Statin-Induced Myopathy

Statins, which are commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, can sometimes cause muscle pain, weakness, or damage, a condition known as statin-induced myopathy. Elevated creatine kinase levels in the blood suggest muscle injury and may indicate the need for medication adjustments or alternative treatments. By identifying these conditions early, healthcare providers can implement appropriate interventions to reduce health risks and improve patient outcomes.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel in Treatment and Monitoring

Healthcare providers use the results of the Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel to guide treatment decisions and monitor patients with metabolic and cardiovascular conditions. Below is an explanation of how these results inform clinical care for each condition.

Managing Hyperlipidemia

For patients diagnosed with hyperlipidemia, healthcare professionals use lipid panel results to determine whether dietary changes, exercise, or cholesterol-lowering medications are necessary. If cholesterol levels remain high despite lifestyle modifications, medications such as statins may be prescribed to help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Preventing Atherosclerosis

If the test results indicate a high risk of atherosclerosis, doctors may recommend aggressive lifestyle changes, such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking. In cases where medication is necessary, lipid-lowering drugs can be prescribed to slow the progression of arterial plaque buildup.

Monitoring Liver Disease

Abnormal metabolic panel results suggest potential liver dysfunction, prompting further evaluation. If liver disease is confirmed, treatment strategies may include lifestyle modifications, medication management, or addressing underlying causes such as alcohol consumption, obesity, or viral infections.

Detecting Kidney Disease

If kidney function markers indicate potential kidney disease, healthcare providers may order additional tests to assess renal function more comprehensively. Treatment strategies often include blood pressure control, dietary adjustments, and medications to prevent further kidney damage.

Assessing Statin-Induced Myopathy

Patients taking statins who experience muscle pain or weakness may have their creatine kinase levels monitored to assess muscle damage. If elevated CK levels are detected, the healthcare provider may adjust the medication dosage, switch to an alternative cholesterol-lowering drug, or recommend lifestyle changes to alleviate symptoms. By regularly monitoring these biomarkers, healthcare professionals can adjust treatment plans as needed, ensuring optimal management of cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Conclusion

The Cholesterol Follow-Up Blood Test Panel is an essential tool for assessing and monitoring cardiovascular and metabolic health. By evaluating lipid levels, organ function, and muscle enzyme activity, this panel provides valuable insights into conditions such as hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, liver disease, kidney disease, and statin-induced myopathy. The results help healthcare providers make informed decisions about lifestyle interventions, medication management, and further diagnostic testing. Regular monitoring through this panel can help prevent complications, improve health outcomes, and support long-term cardiovascular wellness.

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