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LDL Calculator

Estimates LDL cholesterol using the Friedewald equation when a direct LDL measurement is unavailable.

Limitations

The Friedewald equation is widely used because it saves the cost of a direct LDL measurement. However, it assumes a fixed ratio of triglycerides to VLDL cholesterol (5:1 in mg/dL).

This equation should NOT be used if:

  • Triglycerides are ≥ 400 mg/dL (chylomicrons alter the ratio).
  • The patient has dysbetalipoproteinemia (Type III hyperlipoproteinemia).
  • The patient is non-fasting (as postprandial triglycerides fluctuate).