Calculated Ldl

Calculated LDL Cholesterol Calculator

Estimate your Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) using the Friedewald Equation

Your Calculated LDL: mg/dL

Note: This calculation uses the Friedewald formula. It is generally accurate if triglycerides are below 400 mg/dL.

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Understanding Calculated LDL Cholesterol

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. High levels of LDL lead to a buildup of cholesterol in your arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. While direct tests exist, most laboratories use the Friedewald Equation to estimate LDL levels from a standard lipid panel.

The Friedewald Formula

The standard formula used in this calculator is:

LDL = Total Cholesterol – HDL – (Triglycerides / 5)

LDL Level Categories (mg/dL)

• Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
• Near Optimal: 100 – 129 mg/dL
• Borderline High: 130 – 159 mg/dL
• High: 160 – 189 mg/dL
• Very High: 190 mg/dL or higher

Real-Life Calculation Example

Suppose a patient receives the following lipid panel results:

• Total Cholesterol: 210 mg/dL
• HDL Cholesterol: 55 mg/dL
• Triglycerides: 140 mg/dL

Step 1: Calculate VLDL (Triglycerides / 5) = 140 / 5 = 28.

Step 2: Subtract HDL and VLDL from Total Cholesterol = 210 – 55 – 28 = 127 mg/dL.

This result (127 mg/dL) falls into the Near Optimal category.

When is this calculation NOT accurate?

The Friedewald equation has limitations. It should not be used if:

1. Triglycerides are over 400 mg/dL: At these levels, the formula significantly underestimates LDL.
2. The patient is not fasting: Triglyceride levels fluctuate significantly after meals, leading to inaccurate LDL estimates.
3. Type III Hyperlipoproteinemia: A rare genetic condition that alters the composition of lipoproteins.