CHOLESTECH LIPID PROFILE+GLUCOSE TEST CASSETTES

Unit: 1 Box 

Regulatory Status: CLIA Waived (whole blood) / Professional Use Only

Contents: 10 Individually Wrapped Test Cassettes, Package Insert

For Use With: Alere Cholestech LDX Analyzer

Determinations: Total Cholesterol (TC) / High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) / Triglycerides / TC-HDL Ratio / non-HDL / Calculated LDL / Glucose

Storage Requirements: 36° – 46° F 

Sample Volume: 40uL

Processing Time: 5 minutes

The Alere Cholestech Lipid Profile+Glucose Cassette measures total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, and glucose (GLU). It also uses these values to calculate low-density lipoprotein levels (LDL). Approximately 85% of the cholesterol in our blood is produced by our own bodies with the remaining 15% coming from animal products found in our diet. Moderate amounts of cholesterol (a type of lipid) are essential for production, maintenance, and fluidity of cell membranes; nerve insulation and conduction; as well as hormone and bile salt production. The total cholesterol reading is an indication of the overall amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood at the time the test is given. High density lipoprotein is beneficial to heart health due to its ability to transport cholesterol and triglycerides within the water-based bloodstream to the liver for removal or re-utilization. Triglycerides are created by conversion of unused calories and carbohydrates into fat (another type of lipid). These fats are stored for use as the body’s energy source between meals. Low-density lipoproteins are large particles that have the ability to transport cholesterol through the blood and directly into the artery walls, which creates a dangerous build-up of lipids and plaque known as atherosclerosis.

High levels of total cholesterol (over 200 mg/dL), LDL (over 130 mg/dL), triglycerides (over 150 mg/dL) as well as a low HDL level (under 60 mg/dL) can be detrimental to our health, leading to increased fat deposits and plaque build-up in blood vessel walls, clogging arteries, and significantly increasing the potential for heart attack or stroke.

Although heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, only 20% of those cases can be attributed to genetic risk factors. By focusing on diet, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and regularly testing cholesterol levels, patients can be proactive in reducing their chances for heart disease.

Blood glucose is a simple sugar that comes from the breakdown of carbohydrates. It is the primary source of energy used by the body. As we digest carbohydrates, glucose enters the blood, raising blood sugar levels and stimulating the pancreas to release insulin which helps the cells absorb glucose for energy or storage. If blood glucose levels rise too rapidly or too often, the cells become ineffective in their response to insulin leading to metabolic syndrome and eventually diabetes. It is important to test blood glucose periodically to assess your body’s ability to process it effectively.