A new method for calculating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as LDL cholesterol, provides more accurate numbers. As lab companies begin using the updated algorithm, patients and physicians anticipate more accurate information about cholesterol profiles.

James Stein, MD, professor, Cardiovascular Medicine and Robert Turell Professor in Cardiovascular Research, commented on the new method. The calculation is based on research performed by Seth Martin, MD, MHS (not pictured), and colleagues at Johns Hopkins.

LDL comprises a type of lipoprotein involved in transport of fat molecules around the body. By its role in delivering fat molecules to cells, LDL is thought to drive progression of atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries due to buildup of plaque).

Dr. Stein said that the “revised conversion factor better reflects the cholesterol component of VLDL. It is empirically derived and is an advance. It will be especially useful in people with very low LDL-C and as triglycerides increase.”

While the change in the way LDL is calculated does not change how the value should be interpreted, it does provide a more accurate reflection of LDL levels.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins state that the university has filed a patent application for the algorithm. One national laboratory has incorporated the new equation into its reports.

Resources:

• "New And Improved LDL Lab Numbers," CardioBrief, October 27, 2017

Photo caption: Nutritional strategies to reduce LDL include increasing fiber in your diet by eating vegetables, fruits, beans, oats and oat bran; eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as some types of fish, some nut types, and flaxseed; and reducing saturated fat and eliminating trans fats. Photo courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.