Small dense LDL (sdLDL) is a subtype of LDL cholesterol made up of smaller, denser particles that are more easily able to penetrate artery walls and promote plaque buildup.
Category: lipids
Also known as: small dense ldl, sd-ldl, sdldl, small ldl, pattern b ldl
Reference range: 0–40 mg/dL (Source: ABIM)
Standard unit: mg/dL
High values may indicate
High small dense LDL levels may indicate increased risk of coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis, even when total LDL cholesterol is within normal range.
Low values may indicate
Low small dense LDL levels are generally favorable and suggest a lower proportion of atherogenic LDL particles.