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Choose collection locationBiochemistry · Individual laboratory test
Cholesterol, Total
Total cholesterol reports the cholesterol carried by several different particles in a single number. The individual fractions explain how that total is made up.
Price for this test on its ownAED 115Test price AED 15
Clinical authorDr Nirupama SabhapathySpecialist Clinical Pathology
- Sample
- Serum
- Laboratory turnaround
- 24 hours
- Collection
- Dubai
- Laboratory
- Intel Lab
Understanding the test
What does the Total Cholesterol test measure?
Also called Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol can contribute to a first lipid assessment and to follow-up after lifestyle or treatment changes. It is commonly available alongside the fractions that make it up.
When it may be requested
An initial assessment
Total cholesterol gives a starting figure for a more detailed lipid assessment.
Longitudinal comparison
The total and its component fractions can be compared with earlier measurements.
Before your sample
Prepare for collection
SpecimenSerum
Your checklist
The laboratory requests an overnight fasting sample. A morning appointment at a similar time to previous draws can help when tracking the result.
A clinician takes a small sample of blood from a vein. The laboratory uses serum, the liquid separated from the blood after it clots.
Smart Report
Understanding your result
24 hoursLaboratory turnaround
Result guideCholesterol, Total
Reading your result
Unexpected changes deserve comparison with the rest of the panel and previous results. A single total does not describe the balance between LDL and HDL.
What can affect it
- A similar total can reflect substantially different HDL, LDL and triglyceride patterns.
From sample to follow-up
Your testing journey
Laboratory testCholesterol, Total
- Specimen
- Serum
- Turnaround
- 24 hours
Open your laboratory report
Look for Cholesterol, Total in your report. Use the sample type and collection time when comparing it with an earlier report.
Explore Smart Report
Discuss the next step
Before comparing two total cholesterol results, look for the accompanying HDL and LDL values and their units.
Health packages
Packages that include this test
Compare the other tests in each package before choosing.
Basic Health CheckupLipid / Cholesterol Profile
Basic Health CheckupBasic Wellness
Basic Health CheckupBasic Health CheckupSee all 12 packages
Advanced Health PackagesAdvanced Health Checkup
Advanced Health PackagesMenopause Profile
Advanced Health PackagesExecutive Health Checkup
Advanced Health PackagesObesity Profile
Advanced Health PackagesPolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Advanced Health PackagesElite Health Checkup
Advanced Health PackagesExtensive Cardiac Function
Advanced Health PackagesFitness Profile
Advanced Health PackagesMaster Health CheckupClinical expertise
Your laboratory team
Patient questions
Before you book
Can two people with the same total have different risks?
Yes. Their HDL and LDL levels may be very different. Blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and family history also affect how a clinician interprets the result.
Can illness or stress affect the result?
A significant acute illness can temporarily change cholesterol levels. If you were ill around the time of the test, tell your clinician. They can use an earlier result or a repeat after recovery to judge whether this reflects your usual level.
Why does my doctor want HDL and LDL when my total looks fine?
Because the same total can be made up very differently. A reassuring total with a low protective HDL fraction is not the same as one supported by a high HDL, and only the breakdown shows which you have.
KEEP EXPLORING
Explore health packages.
Open a package to see exactly which tests it includes.
Lipid / Cholesterol Profile
Total cholesterol, HDL, directly measured LDL, VLDL and triglycerides from one blood sample.
- biomarkers
- 5
- Samples
- Blood
- Listed turnaround
- 24 hours
AED 89
Explore packageExtensive Cardiac Function
An in-depth cardiovascular risk panel combining advanced cardiac markers with a full general health screen.
- biomarkers
- 73
- Samples
- Blood + Urine
- Listed turnaround
- 48 hours
AED 599
Explore packageBasic Health Checkup
Blood count, liver, kidney, cholesterol, blood sugar and urine tests: the essentials in one visit.
- biomarkers
- 63
- Samples
- Blood + Urine
- Listed turnaround
- 24 hours
AED 199
Explore packageBasic Wellness
A complete blood count with liver enzymes, cholesterol, kidney markers and fasting blood sugar from one blood sample.
- biomarkers
- 31
- Samples
- Blood
- Listed turnaround
- 24 hours
AED 129
Explore packageChoosing for a particular need?
We can help you read the options.
Your next step
Total Cholesterol test at home.
Sources & further reading
Written by Dr Nirupama Sabhapathy, Specialist Clinical Pathology. Medically reviewed by Dr Joyce Jose, Specialist Clinical Pathology, on .
Catalogue information and AED price checked on 2 November 2026. Clinical suitability, preparation, collection arrangements and turnaround are confirmed for your selected test.