Ulta Lab Tests

Heart Health & Cholesterol - Advanced Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel includes 28 tests and 138 biomarkers to review cholesterol, ApoA1, ApoB, Lp(a), lipoprotein particles, insulin resistance, blood sugar, inflammation, kidney risk, thyroid function, liver health, omega status, homocysteine, and nutrients. It includes lipid panel with ratios, Cardio IQ, A1c, insulin, C-peptide, hs-CRP, cystatin C, urine albumin, TSH, Free T4, GGT, B12, folate, MMA, and more.

Urine, Serum, Blood, Random
Phlebotomist
Heart Health Advanced Panel, Cholesterol Advanced Panel, Advanced Heart Blood Test, Cardio IQ Cholesterol Panel, ApoB and Lp(a) Panel, Cardiovascular Risk Panel, Advanced Lipid Panel, Cardiac Wellness Panel, Preventive Heart Health 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: Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine

Creatinine, Random Urine

Microalbumin

Microalbumin/Creatinine

Apolipoprotein A1

Apolipoprotein B

Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio

Also known as: Bilirubin Fractionated

Bilirubin, Direct

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.

Bilirubin, Indirect

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.

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.

Also known as: C-Terminal Insulin, Connecting peptide insulin, CPeptide, Insulin C-peptide, Proinsulin C-peptide

C-Peptide

Also known as: CBC, CBC includes Differential and Platelets, CBC/PLT w/DIFF, Complete Blood Count (includes Differential and Platelets)

NOTE: Ulta Lab Tests provides CBC test results from Quest Diagnostics as they are reported. Often, different biomarker results are made available at different time intervals. When reporting the results, Ulta Lab Tests denotes those biomarkers not yet reported as 'pending' for every biomarker the test might report. Only biomarkers Quest Diagnostics observes are incorporated and represented in the final CBC test results provided by Ulta Lab Tests.

Absolute Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Absolute Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Absolute Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Eosinophils

Eosinophils (eos) respond to infections caused by parasites and play a role in allergic reactions (hypersensitivities)

Absolute Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Absolute Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

Absolute Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Neutrophils

Neutrophils (neu) normally make up the largest number of circulating WBCs. They move into an area of damaged or infected tissue, where they engulf and destroy bacteria or sometimes fungi. Young neutrophils, recently released into circulation, are called bands.

Absolute Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Absolute Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are specialized white blood cells produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream, where they normally make up only 0–6 % of circulating leukocytes. Their cytoplasm is packed with reddish‑orange granules that contain potent enzymes (e.g., major basic protein, eosinophil cationic protein) and inflammatory mediators. When the immune system detects large, multicellular invaders—such as helminth (worm) parasites—eosinophils migrate out of the blood and surround the pathogen, releasing these granule contents to damage the parasite’s outer surface and aid its destruction. Beyond parasite defense, eosinophils act as key orchestras of the allergic response. They accumulate in tissues exposed to allergens (airways in asthma, skin in eczema, GI tract in eosinophilic esophagitis) and secrete cytokines and lipid mediators that amplify inflammation, recruit additional immune cells, and contribute to symptoms like swelling, mucus production, and itching. Because of this pro‑inflammatory role, persistently elevated eosinophil counts—termed eosinophilia—can signal allergic disorders, drug hypersensitivity, or certain autoimmune and malignant conditions. Conversely, counts drop toward zero after glucocorticoid therapy or in acute stress states, reflecting the cells’ sensitivity to hormonal and immune regulation.

Hematocrit

Hematocrit is a blood test that measures the percentage of the volume of whole blood that is made up of red blood cells. This measurement depends on the number of red blood cells and the size of red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

Serum hemoglobin is a blood test that measures the level of free hemoglobin in the liquid part of the blood (the serum). Free hemoglobin is the hemoglobin outside of the red blood cells. Most of the hemoglobin is found inside the red blood cells, not in the serum.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

MCH

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is a calculation of the average amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin inside a red blood cell.

MCHC

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is a calculation of the average percentage of hemoglobin inside a red cell.

MCV

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a measurement of the average size of RBCs.

Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

MPV

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) - When it indicates average size of platelets are small; older platelets are generally smaller than younger ones and a low MPV may mean that a condition is affecting the production of platelets by the bone marrow. When it indicates a high number of larger, younger platelets in the blood; this may be due to the bone marrow producing and releasing platelets rapidly into circulation.

Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed.

Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Platelet Count

A platelet count is a test to measure how many platelets you have in your blood. Platelets help the blood clot. They are smaller than red or white blood cells.

Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

RDW

Red cell distribution width (RDW), which may be included in a CBC, is a calculation of the variation in the size of RBCs.

Reactive Lymphocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Red Blood Cell Count

An RBC count is a blood test that tells how many red blood cells (RBCs) you have. RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs you have and how well they work.

White Blood Cell Count

A WBC count is a test to measure the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood. WBCs help fight infections. They are also called leukocytes. There are five major types of white blood cells: basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), monocytes and neutrophils

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

CYSTATIN C

eGFR

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein found inside cells that stores iron so your body can use it later. A ferritin test indirectly measures the amount of iron in your blood. The amount of ferritin in your blood (serum ferritin level) is directly related to the amount of iron stored in your body.

Also known as: Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT, Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase, Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase, Gamma-GT, GGTP, GTP

Ggt

Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is a test to measure the amount of the enzyme GGT in the blood.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

HEMOGLOBIN A1C

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: Homocysteine, Homocysteine Cardiovascular

HOMOCYSTEINE,

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Insulin (fasting)

Insulin

Insulin is a hormone that is produced and stored in the beta cells of the pancreas. It is vital for the transportation and storage of glucose at the cellular level, helps regulate blood glucose levels, and has a role in lipid metabolism. When blood glucose levels rise after a meal, insulin is released to allow glucose to move into tissue cells, especially muscle and adipose (fat) cells, where is it is used for energy production. Insulin then prompts the liver to either store the remaining excess blood glucose as glycogen for short-term energy storage and/or to use it to produce fatty acids. The fatty acids are eventually used by adipose tissue to synthesize triglycerides to form the basis of a longer term, more concentrated form of energy storage. Without insulin, glucose cannot reach most of the body's cells. Without glucose, the cells starve and blood glucose levels rise to unhealthy levels. This can cause disturbances in normal metabolic processes that result in various disorders, including kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and vision and neurological problems. Thus, diabetes, a disorder associated with decreased insulin effects, is eventually a life-threatening condition.

Also known as: Iron and TIBC, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity TIBC, TIBC

% Saturation

Iron Binding Capacity

Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is a blood test to see if you may have too much or too little iron in the blood. Iron moves through the blood attached to a protein called transferrin. This test helps your doctor know how well that protein can carry iron in the blood.

Iron, Total

Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many functions. For example, iron is part of hemoglobin, a protein which carries oxygen from our lungs throughout our bodies. It helps our muscles store and use oxygen. Iron is also part of many other proteins and enzymes. Your body needs the right amount of iron. If you have too little iron, you may develop iron deficiency anemia. Causes of low iron levels include blood loss, poor diet, or an inability to absorb enough iron from foods. People at higher risk of having too little iron are young children and women who are pregnant or have periods.

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.

Also known as: Lipoprotein A, Lp (a), Lp(a)

Lipoprotein (A)

Lipoprotein-a, or Lp(a) are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. A high level of Lp(a) is considered a risk factor for heart disease. High levels of lipoproteins can increase the risk of heart disease. The test is done to check your risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.

Also known as: Ion Mobility, Cardio IQ Lipoprotein Fractionation, Ion Mobility , HDL Subfractions, IDL Subfractions, LDL Subfractions, Lipoprotein Fraction, Lipoprotein Fractionation, Lipoprotein Fractionation Ion Mobility Cardio IQ, Quest Diagnostics has replaced the VAP® Cholesterol Test with Lipoprotein Fractionation, Ion Mobility, Cardio IQ™ test

HDL Large

LDL Medium

LDL Particle Number

LDL Pattern

LDL Peak Size

LDL Small

Magnesium

Methylmalonic Acid

ARACHIDONIC ACID

ARACHIDONIC ACID/EPA

DHA

DPA

EPA

EPA+DPA+DHA

LINOLEIC ACID

OMEGA-3 TOTAL

OMEGA-6 TOTAL

OMEGA-6/OMEGA-3 RATIO

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D2

Vitamin D2 ((ergocalciferol,) is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D2 is effective when it is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D3

Vitamin D3 (cholecalcifero) which comes from animals. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D3 are is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Also known as: Free T4, FT4, T4 Free

T4, Free

The free T4 test is not affected by protein levels. Since free T4 is the active form of thyroxine, the free T4 test is may be a more accurate reflection of thyroid hormone function.

Also known as: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test

TSH

A TSH test is a lab test that measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It tells the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood.

Also known as: Serum Urate, UA

Uric Acid

Uric acid is a chemical created when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are found in some foods and drinks. These include liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas, and beer. Most uric acid dissolves in blood and travels to the kidneys. From there, it passes out in urine. If your body produces too much uric acid or doesn't remove enough if it, you can get sick. A high level of uric acid in the blood is called hyperuricemia.

Also known as: UA, Complete, Urinalysis UA Complete, Urine Analysis, Complete

Amorphous Sediment (Only Reported If Detected)

Appearance

Bacteria

Bacteria are living things that have only one cell. Most bacteria won't hurt you - less than 1 percent of the different types make people sick. Many are helpful. Some bacteria help to digest food, destroy disease-causing cells, and give the body needed vitamins. But infectious bacteria can make you ill. They reproduce quickly in your body. Many give off chemicals called toxins, which can damage tissue and make you sick. Examples of bacteria that cause infections include Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and E. coli.

Bilirubin

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.

Calcium Oxalate Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Calcium oxalate is a chemical compound that forms envelope-shaped crystals. A major constituent of human kidney stones.

Casts (Only Reported If Detected)

Urinary casts are cylindrical structures produced by the kidney and present in the urine in certain disease states. They form in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts of nephrons, then dislodge and pass into the urine, where they can be detected by microscopy.

Color

Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Abnormal crystals may appear in urine as a result of pathology or due to normal catabolism

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.

Granular Cast (Only Reported If Detected)

The second-most common type of cast, granular casts can result either from the breakdown of cellular casts or the inclusion of aggregates of plasma proteins (e.g., albumin) or immunoglobulin light chains. Depending on the size of inclusions, they can be classified as fine or coarse, though the distinction has no diagnostic significance. Their appearance is generally more cigar-shaped and of a higher refractive index than hyaline casts. While most often indicative of chronic renal disease, these casts, as with hyaline casts, can also be seen for a short time following strenuous exercise

Hyaline Cast

Urinary casts are tiny tube-shaped particles. Urinary casts may be made up of white blood cells, red blood cells, kidney cells, or substances such as protein or fat. The most common type of cast, hyaline casts are solidified Tamm-Horsfall mucoprotein secreted from the tubular epithelial cells of individual nephrons. Low urine flow, concentrated urine, or an acidic environment can contribute to the formation of hyaline casts, and, as such, they may be seen in normal individuals in dehydration or vigorous exercise. Hyaline casts are cylindrical and clear, with a low refractive index,

Ketones

Ketones are substances produced in the liver when fat cells break down in the blood. A serum ketone test is a measurement of how many ketones are in the blood.

Leukocyte Esterase

Leukocyte esterase is a urine test to look for white blood cells and other signs associated with infection.

Nitrite

Occult Blood

The test looks for hidden (occult) blood in a specimen sample. It can find blood even if you cannot see it yourself.

Ph

Level of acid

Protein

Body fluids contain many different proteins that serve diverse functions such as transport of nutrients, removal of toxins, control of metabolic processes, and defense against invaders. Protein electrophoresis is a method for separating these proteins based on their size and electrical charge. When body fluids are separated by electrophoresis, they form a characteristic pattern of bands of different widths and intensities, reflecting the mixture of proteins present. This pattern is divided into five fractions, called albumin, alpha 1, alpha 2, beta, and gamma. In some cases, the beta fraction is further divided into beta 1 and beta 2. Albumin, which is produced in the liver, accounts for about 60% of the protein in the blood. "Globulins" is a collective term used to refer to proteins other than albumin. With the exception of the immunoglobulins and some complement proteins, most of the globulins are also produced in the liver. Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) is a method used to identify abnormal bands seen on serum, urine, or CSF protein electrophoresis, as to which type of antibody (immunoglobulin) is present.

Rbc

RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs you have and how well they work.

Reducing Substances (Only Reported If Detected)

Renal Epithelial Cells (Only Reported If Detected)

Specific Gravity

Squamous Epithelial Cells

Transitional Epithelial (Only Reported If Detected)

Triple Phosphate Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Struvite stones (triple phosphate/magnesium ammonium phosphate) - about 10–15% of urinary calculi are composed of struvite (ammonium magnesium phosphate, NH4MgPO4·6H2O).[44] Struvite stones (also known as "infection stones", urease or triple-phosphate stones), form most often in the presence of infection by urea-splitting bacteria

Uric Acid Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Abnormal crystals may appear in urine as a result of pathology or due to normal catabolism

WBC

WBCs help fight infections. They are also called leukocytes. There are five major types of white blood cells: basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), monocytes and neutrophils

YEAST (Only Reported If Detected)

Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. Usually, your immune system keeps yeast under control. If you are sick or taking antibiotics, it can multiply and cause an infection.

Also known as: Cobalamin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B 12, Vitamin B 12 and Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Cobalamin and Folate Panel Serum, Vitamin B12/Folic Acid

Folate, Serum

Folate is part of the B complex of vitamins and is measures the levels of folate in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Folate is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis.. A deficiency inr folate can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is part of the B complex of vitamins and measurea the levels of vitamin B12 in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Cobalamine, or vitamin B12, is found in animal products such as red meat, fish, poultry, milk, yogurt, and eggs and is not produced in the human body. In recent years, fortified cereals, breads, and other grain products have also become important dietary sources of B12. Vitamin B12 is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis. B12 is important for nerve health. A deficiency in B12 can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow. B12 deficiency can lead to varying degrees of neuropathy, nerve damage that can cause tingling and numbness in the affected person's hands and feet.

Also known as: B6, B6 Vitamin, Pyridoxal, Pyridoxal Phosphate, Pyridoxal Phosphate (PLP), Vitamin B6 Pyridoxal Phosphate

Vitamin B6

*Important Information on Lab Test Processing Times: Ulta Lab Tests is committed to informing you about the processing times for your lab tests processed through a national lab. Please note that the estimated processing time for each test, indicated in business days, is based on data from the past 30 days across the 13 laboratories for each test. These estimates are intended to serve as a guide and are not guarantees. Factors such as laboratory workload, weather conditions, holidays, and the need for additional testing or maintenance can influence actual processing times. We aim to offer estimates to help you plan accordingly. Please understand that these times may vary, and processing times are not guaranteed. Thank you for choosing Ulta Lab Tests for your laboratory needs.

The Heart Health & Cholesterol - Advanced Lab Panel panel contains 28 tests with 138 biomarkers .

Overview

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel is designed for people who want more than a basic cholesterol test and want a deeper lab-based review of cardiovascular and metabolic risk-related biomarkers.

Heart health is influenced by more than total cholesterol alone. LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, ApoB, ApoA1, Lipoprotein(a), lipoprotein particle patterns, inflammation, blood sugar, insulin resistance, kidney function, thyroid function, liver health, omega fatty acid balance, B-vitamin status, uric acid, and muscle enzyme patterns may all provide useful context.

This Advanced panel includes standard and advanced cholesterol markers, blood sugar and insulin markers, kidney and urine risk markers, thyroid markers, liver and bile-flow markers, inflammation markers, omega fatty acid status, vitamin and methylation markers, and general wellness markers.

This panel does not diagnose heart disease, plaque burden, heart attack, stroke risk, or any cardiovascular condition by itself. Results should be reviewed with a licensed healthcare provider and interpreted with symptoms, age, sex, blood pressure, smoking history, diabetes status, family history, medications, imaging history, and overall health history.

Why Order This Panel?

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel may be helpful for people who want a deeper understanding of cholesterol and cardiometabolic patterns beyond a standard lipid panel.

This panel may help provide insight into:

  • Standard cholesterol and triglyceride patterns
  • ApoA1, ApoB, and atherogenic particle burden
  • Lipoprotein(a), an inherited cardiovascular risk marker
  • LDL particle number, LDL size, and lipoprotein fractionation
  • Blood sugar, insulin resistance, and C-peptide patterns
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Kidney filtration and urine albumin patterns
  • Thyroid markers that may affect cholesterol
  • Liver and bile-flow markers related to lipid metabolism
  • Iron storage and iron availability
  • B-vitamin, methylation, homocysteine, and MMA patterns
  • Omega fatty acid status
  • CK and statin-related muscle enzyme context

This Panel May Be Helpful For People With

  • High cholesterol
  • High LDL cholesterol
  • High triglycerides
  • Low HDL cholesterol
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Family history of early heart attack or stroke
  • Known elevated Lipoprotein(a)
  • Insulin resistance or prediabetes
  • Diabetes risk
  • Metabolic syndrome concerns
  • High blood pressure
  • Inflammation concerns
  • Thyroid symptoms with cholesterol concerns
  • Statin use or muscle symptoms
  • Fatty liver or elevated liver enzyme concerns
  • Kidney risk or urine albumin concerns
  • Interest in a deeper heart health and cholesterol baseline

What This Panel Helps Evaluate

This panel helps evaluate selected biomarkers related to:

  • Heart health and cholesterol
  • LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol ratios
  • ApoA1, ApoB, and atherogenic particle burden
  • Lipoprotein(a) inherited risk
  • Lipoprotein particle size and number
  • Blood sugar and insulin resistance
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Kidney filtration and urine albumin patterns
  • Thyroid-related cholesterol patterns
  • Liver and bile-flow context
  • Iron status
  • Homocysteine and B-vitamin status
  • Omega fatty acid status
  • Vitamin D and magnesium status
  • CK and statin-related muscle enzyme context

Which Tier Is Right for Me?

Essential Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel is best for people who want a focused starting point for cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid screening, liver and kidney function, magnesium, and basic blood health.

Choose Essential if you want a practical first step for cholesterol and cardiometabolic risk review.

Advanced Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel is best for people who want deeper insight into ApoA1, ApoB, Lp(a), lipoprotein particle patterns, insulin resistance, C-peptide, kidney and urine vascular risk, B-vitamin and homocysteine patterns, iron status, thyroid function, GGT, uric acid, vitamin D, omega fatty acids, and statin-related muscle context.

Choose Advanced if you have high cholesterol, family history of heart disease, insulin resistance, high triglycerides, statin use, thyroid concerns, kidney risk, or cardiometabolic risk.

Comprehensive Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Comprehensive Lab Panel is the broadest option. It includes the Essential and Advanced categories and may add premium cardiovascular markers such as Lp-PLA2 activity, MPO, OxLDL, fibrinogen, CoQ10, Free T3, thyroid antibodies, proBNP, and Troponin I for physician-guided advanced cardiovascular review.

Choose Comprehensive if you want the deepest review of cholesterol particle risk, inherited risk, vascular inflammation, oxidative LDL stress, insulin resistance, thyroid-lipid contributors, kidney risk, omega status, and advanced cardiovascular biomarkers.

Tests Included and Why They Matter

Core Cholesterol, Apo Proteins & Lipoprotein Risk

This group evaluates standard cholesterol markers plus advanced lipoprotein markers that can provide deeper cardiovascular risk context than a basic lipid panel alone.

Lipid Panel with Ratios

The Lipid Panel with Ratios evaluates total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and cholesterol ratios.

This test is included because it is the foundation of cholesterol and heart health testing. LDL cholesterol and triglycerides can provide insight into atherogenic cholesterol burden and metabolic health, while HDL cholesterol and ratios provide additional cardiovascular context.

Apolipoprotein A1 + B

Apolipoprotein B, or ApoB, reflects the number of atherogenic cholesterol-carrying particles. ApoA1 is the main protein associated with HDL particles.

This test is included because ApoB can provide deeper risk context than LDL cholesterol alone. ApoA1 adds HDL-related transport context, while ApoB helps estimate the number of particles that may contribute to plaque formation.

Lipoprotein(a)

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is an inherited cholesterol-related marker.

This test is included because elevated Lp(a) can add cardiovascular risk that may not be obvious from a standard lipid panel. Lp(a) is especially useful for people with family history of early heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, or unexplained cardiovascular risk.

Lipoprotein Fractionation, Ion Mobility, Cardio IQ™

This advanced test evaluates lipoprotein particle patterns, including particle size and particle number.

This test is included because two people with similar LDL cholesterol values may have different LDL particle numbers or particle patterns. Particle testing may provide additional insight into insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome risk, small dense LDL patterns, and advanced cardiovascular risk.

Blood Sugar, Insulin Resistance & Metabolic Heart Risk

Blood sugar and insulin resistance are major contributors to cardiometabolic risk. This group evaluates glucose regulation, insulin production, and metabolic stress patterns.

Hemoglobin A1c

Hemoglobin A1c measures average blood sugar over approximately the past two to three months.

This test is included because diabetes and prediabetes are strongly related to cardiovascular risk. A1c provides a longer-term view of blood sugar patterns that may be relevant to heart health, weight, energy, and metabolic wellness.

Insulin

Insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into cells.

This test is included because insulin resistance often overlaps with high triglycerides, low HDL, abdominal weight gain, fatty liver, metabolic syndrome, and increased cardiovascular risk. Insulin can provide insight that may not be obvious from glucose or A1c alone.

C-Peptide

C-peptide is released when the body makes insulin.

This test is included because it helps evaluate endogenous insulin production. When reviewed with insulin, glucose, and A1c, C-peptide may provide deeper context for insulin resistance, beta-cell activity, and metabolic heart risk.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, CMP

The CMP evaluates glucose, liver function, kidney function, electrolytes, calcium, albumin, total protein, and other metabolic markers.

This test is included because cardiovascular risk review benefits from a broad metabolic and organ-function baseline. CMP results provide context for glucose, kidney function, liver enzymes, electrolytes, calcium, albumin, and protein status.

Uric Acid

Uric acid is a metabolic waste product.

This test is included because uric acid may provide context for metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, gout risk, kidney stone risk, and cardiometabolic stress.

Inflammation, Methylation & Vascular Wellness

Inflammation and methylation-related markers can add important context to cardiovascular wellness, especially when cholesterol, insulin resistance, or family history are concerns.

hs-CRP

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a marker of low-grade inflammation.

This test is included because inflammation may provide useful context for cardiometabolic risk, metabolic syndrome, vascular wellness, and interpretation of other markers such as ferritin.

Homocysteine

Homocysteine is influenced by vitamin B12, folate, vitamin B6, methylation pathways, kidney function, and vascular health.

This test is included because it provides context for B-vitamin status, methylation, vascular wellness, and cardiovascular risk discussions.

Kidney, Vascular & Urine Risk Context

Kidney health and vascular health are closely connected. Urine albumin and kidney filtration markers can provide important cardiometabolic and vascular risk context.

Cystatin C with eGFR

Cystatin C with eGFR provides an estimate of kidney filtration.

This test is included because kidney function is an important cardiovascular risk context. Cystatin C may provide additional kidney filtration insight beyond creatinine alone.

Albumin, Random Urine with Creatinine

This urine test evaluates albumin relative to creatinine.

It is included because urine albumin may provide early kidney and vascular stress context, especially in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, or cardiovascular risk.

Urinalysis, UA, Complete

A complete urinalysis evaluates urine markers such as protein, blood, glucose, ketones, specific gravity, pH, and other findings.

This test is included because urinalysis may provide context for kidney health, glucose handling, hydration, protein, blood, ketones, and urine abnormalities that may be relevant to cardiometabolic wellness.

Thyroid Function & Secondary Cholesterol Contributors

Thyroid function can influence cholesterol, triglycerides, metabolism, heart rhythm, energy, weight, and cardiovascular wellness. This group helps identify thyroid-related patterns that may contribute to abnormal cholesterol.

TSH

TSH is a key thyroid screening marker.

This test is included because low thyroid function may contribute to high cholesterol, fatigue, weight changes, cold intolerance, constipation, and low energy. TSH is an important baseline marker when reviewing lipid patterns.

T4, Free

Free T4 measures the available form of thyroxine, a thyroid hormone.

This test is included because Free T4 adds thyroid hormone production context beyond TSH alone. It is useful when cholesterol patterns, fatigue, or metabolic symptoms suggest thyroid involvement.

Liver, Bile Flow, Iron & Metabolic Context

The liver plays a major role in cholesterol production, bile flow, glucose metabolism, triglyceride handling, detoxification, and inflammation. This group provides liver-metabolic and iron-status context.

Gamma Glutamyl Transferase, GGT

GGT is a liver and bile duct enzyme.

This test is included because GGT may provide context for liver stress, bile flow, fatty liver patterns, alcohol exposure, medication use, supplement use, and metabolic liver health. It is especially relevant when triglycerides, insulin resistance, or fatty liver concerns are present.

Bilirubin, Fractionated

Bilirubin, Fractionated measures total, direct, and indirect bilirubin.

This test is included because bilirubin patterns provide liver processing and bile-flow context. It can add useful information beyond standard liver enzymes alone.

Ferritin

Ferritin measures stored iron.

This test is included because ferritin may provide context for iron storage, inflammation, metabolic liver patterns, anemia, and iron overload. Ferritin should be interpreted with iron/TIBC and hs-CRP.

Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, TIBC

Iron and TIBC help evaluate circulating iron and iron transport capacity.

This test is included because iron deficiency, iron overload, or abnormal iron availability may provide context for fatigue, metabolic health, inflammation, and liver-related patterns.

Nutrients, Omega Fatty Acids & B-Vitamin Support

Nutrient status can influence inflammation, homocysteine, methylation, omega fatty acid balance, muscle symptoms, and overall cardiovascular wellness.

OMEGACHECK™

OMEGACHECK™ evaluates omega fatty acid status.

This test is included because omega-3 and omega-6 patterns may provide context for cardiovascular wellness, inflammation balance, fish oil use, cell membrane health, and nutrition quality.

Vitamin B12 and Folate Panel, Serum

This panel measures vitamin B12 and folate.

B12 and folate are included because they help interpret homocysteine and support methylation, red blood cell production, nerve function, and vascular wellness.

Vitamin B6, Pyridoxal Phosphate

Vitamin B6 is involved in methylation, neurotransmitter pathways, amino acid metabolism, and homocysteine regulation.

This test is included because B6 helps provide context for homocysteine and cardiovascular methylation patterns.

Methylmalonic Acid

Methylmalonic acid, or MMA, is a functional marker related to vitamin B12 status.

This test is included because MMA may provide deeper B12 interpretation, especially when B12 is borderline or homocysteine is elevated.

QuestAssureD™ 25-Hydroxyvitamin D, D2, D3, LC/MS/MS

Vitamin D testing measures vitamin D status.

This test is included because vitamin D may provide general cardiometabolic, immune, bone, inflammation, and wellness context.

Magnesium

Magnesium supports blood pressure regulation, glucose metabolism, muscle function, nerve signaling, and heart rhythm.

This test is included because magnesium may provide useful cardiometabolic context, especially when blood pressure, insulin resistance, muscle symptoms, or supplement use are part of the discussion.

Blood Health, Statin Support & Muscle Safety

This group provides general blood health context and markers that may be useful for people taking cholesterol medications or reporting muscle symptoms.

CBC, includes Differential and Platelets

The CBC evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, and white blood cell types.

This test is included because general blood health, anemia patterns, inflammation clues, immune findings, and platelet patterns can add context to cardiovascular wellness.

Creatine Kinase, CK, Total

CK is an enzyme found mainly in muscle tissue.

This test is included because CK may provide context for muscle symptoms, statin use, intense exercise, muscle injury, or muscle breakdown. It can also help clarify whether AST or ALT elevations from the CMP may be muscle-related.

Related Biomarker Patterns This Panel May Help Identify

This panel may help identify or rule out lab patterns related to:

  • High LDL cholesterol
  • High triglycerides
  • Low HDL cholesterol
  • Elevated ApoB particle burden
  • Elevated Lipoprotein(a)
  • Abnormal lipoprotein particle size or number
  • Insulin resistance
  • Blood sugar imbalance
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Kidney filtration changes
  • Urine albumin abnormalities
  • Thyroid-related cholesterol patterns
  • Liver-metabolic stress
  • Homocysteine and methylation patterns
  • Omega fatty acid status
  • Statin-related muscle enzyme patterns

Professional Safety and Interpretation Notice

This panel is designed to support heart health, cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk review. It does not diagnose heart disease, heart attack, heart failure, coronary artery disease, stroke risk, plaque burden, or any cardiovascular condition by itself.

Results should be interpreted with a licensed healthcare provider and reviewed with symptoms, age, sex, blood pressure, diabetes status, smoking history, family history, medications, imaging results, and overall health history.

Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, stroke symptoms, or symptoms of a possible heart attack.

How to Prepare for This Panel

Preparation may vary depending on the specific tests and instructions provided with your order. In general:

  • Fasting may be recommended because lipid, glucose, insulin, and C-peptide markers are included.
  • Avoid unusually intense exercise before testing if CK interpretation is important.
  • Bring a list of medications and supplements, including statins, blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, aspirin, anticoagulants, fish oil, CoQ10, and thyroid medication.
  • Note symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, leg swelling, muscle aches, fatigue, or exercise intolerance.
  • Drink water normally unless instructed otherwise.
  • Follow all lab collection instructions provided with your order.

What Happens After You Receive Your Results?

After your results are available, your biomarkers can help organize heart health findings into areas such as cholesterol, lipoprotein particles, inherited risk, inflammation, blood sugar, insulin resistance, kidney and urine vascular risk, thyroid function, liver-metabolic context, omega fatty acid status, homocysteine, B-vitamin status, and statin-related muscle context.

During the physician consultation, you can discuss whether your results suggest the need for follow-up testing, medication review, lifestyle changes, imaging discussions, blood pressure review, statin or lipid-lowering therapy discussion, or additional clinical care.

Additional Panels to Consider

Customers interested in the Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel may also consider:

  • Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel
  • Heart Health & Cholesterol Comprehensive Lab Panel
  • Weight Loss Resistance & Metabolism Lab Panel
  • Prediabetes & Insulin Resistance Lab Panel
  • Kidney, Liver & Detox Support Lab Panel
  • Thyroid & Metabolism Lab Panel
  • Medication Safety Lab Panel
  • Medication & Supplement Safety Lab Panel
  • Longevity & Healthy Aging Lab Panel
  • Inflammation, Autoimmune & Chronic Pain Lab Panel

FAQ: Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel

What is the Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel?

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel is a blood and urine test panel that evaluates cholesterol, advanced lipoproteins, ApoA1, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), lipoprotein particle patterns, inflammation, blood sugar, insulin resistance, kidney function, thyroid function, liver-metabolic context, omega fatty acids, homocysteine, B vitamins, and statin-related muscle enzyme markers.

What blood tests are commonly used to evaluate heart health and cholesterol?

Common heart health and cholesterol tests include a Lipid Panel, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), hs-CRP, A1c, CMP, kidney markers, thyroid markers, and sometimes advanced lipoprotein particle testing. This Advanced panel expands that review with ApoA1+B, Cardio IQ™ lipoprotein fractionation, insulin, C-peptide, urine albumin, cystatin C, OMEGACHECK™, B12, folate, B6, MMA, GGT, and CK.

Why is ApoB included?

ApoB helps estimate the number of atherogenic cholesterol-carrying particles. It can provide important context when LDL cholesterol does not fully reflect particle burden.

Why is Lipoprotein(a) included?

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is largely inherited and may contribute to cardiovascular risk even when standard cholesterol results look acceptable. It is often useful as a baseline inherited risk marker.

Why is Cardio IQ™ Lipoprotein Fractionation included?

Cardio IQ™ Lipoprotein Fractionation provides advanced lipoprotein particle information, including particle size and number. This can help provide deeper insight into cholesterol risk patterns, especially when insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, or family history is present.

Why are A1c, insulin, and C-peptide included?

Blood sugar and insulin resistance are major cardiometabolic risk factors. A1c, insulin, and C-peptide help evaluate glucose trends, insulin resistance, and insulin production.

Why are thyroid markers included in a cholesterol panel?

Thyroid function can affect cholesterol, triglycerides, energy, weight, and metabolism. TSH and Free T4 provide thyroid function context when lipid patterns are being reviewed.

Why are kidney markers included?

Kidney function and urine albumin patterns can provide cardiovascular and vascular risk context, especially in people with diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, or insulin resistance.

Why are OMEGACHECK™ and B vitamins included?

OMEGACHECK™ provides omega fatty acid status, while B12, folate, B6, MMA, and homocysteine provide methylation and nutrient context that may support cardiovascular wellness discussions.

Why is CK included?

CK may provide muscle enzyme context for people using statins or experiencing muscle symptoms. It can also help clarify whether AST or ALT changes may be muscle-related.

Can this panel diagnose heart disease?

No. This panel does not diagnose heart disease, heart attack, heart failure, plaque, or stroke risk by itself. It helps evaluate biomarkers that may support a provider-guided cardiovascular risk discussion.

Should I choose Essential, Advanced, or Comprehensive?

Choose Essential for a focused cholesterol and cardiometabolic baseline, Advanced for deeper insulin, kidney, thyroid, nutrient, and ApoB/Lp(a) review, and Comprehensive for the broadest advanced cardiovascular biomarker review.

Important Note

This panel is designed to help evaluate selected biomarkers related to heart health, cholesterol, advanced lipoprotein risk, inflammation, blood sugar, insulin resistance, kidney function, thyroid function, liver health, omega fatty acids, methylation, statin-related muscle context, and cardiometabolic wellness. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease by itself. Results should be reviewed with a licensed healthcare provider.

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