Ldl Cholesterol Calculé

LDL Cholesterol Calculator (Friedewald Equation)

function calculateLDL() { var totalCholesterol = parseFloat(document.getElementById('totalCholesterol').value); var hdlCholesterol = parseFloat(document.getElementById('hdlCholesterol').value); var triglycerides = parseFloat(document.getElementById('triglycerides').value); var resultDiv = document.getElementById('ldlResult'); if (isNaN(totalCholesterol) || isNaN(hdlCholesterol) || isNaN(triglycerides) || totalCholesterol < 0 || hdlCholesterol < 0 || triglycerides < 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please enter valid positive numbers for all fields.'; return; } if (triglycerides >= 400) { resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Calculated LDL is not accurate when Triglycerides are ≥ 400 mg/dL. Direct LDL measurement is recommended.'; return; } var ldlCholesterol = totalCholesterol – hdlCholesterol – (triglycerides / 5); if (ldlCholesterol < 0) { ldlCholesterol = 0; // LDL-C cannot be negative } resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Calculated LDL Cholesterol: ' + ldlCholesterol.toFixed(1) + ' mg/dL'; }

Understanding LDL Cholesterol and Its Calculation

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, plays a critical role in cardiovascular health. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

While LDL cholesterol can be measured directly through a blood test, it is frequently estimated using a formula based on other components of a standard lipid panel. The most widely used method for this estimation is the Friedewald equation.

The Friedewald Equation

The Friedewald equation calculates LDL cholesterol using the following formula:

LDL-C = Total Cholesterol – HDL-C – (Triglycerides / 5)

Where:

• Total Cholesterol: The sum of all cholesterol in your blood.
• HDL-C (High-density lipoprotein cholesterol): Often called "good" cholesterol, as it helps remove excess cholesterol from the body.
• Triglycerides: A type of fat found in your blood.

Limitations of the Friedewald Equation

It's important to note that the Friedewald equation has a significant limitation: it is generally considered accurate only when triglyceride levels are below 400 mg/dL. When triglyceride levels are 400 mg/dL or higher, the calculation becomes less reliable, and a direct measurement of LDL cholesterol is usually recommended by healthcare providers.

Using This Calculator

This calculator allows you to estimate your LDL cholesterol level based on your Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, and Triglycerides values from a recent lipid panel. Simply input your numbers into the respective fields and click "Calculate LDL".

Example Calculation:

Let's say your lipid panel results are:

• Total Cholesterol: 200 mg/dL
• HDL Cholesterol: 50 mg/dL
• Triglycerides: 150 mg/dL

Using the Friedewald equation:

LDL-C = 200 – 50 – (150 / 5)
LDL-C = 200 – 50 – 30
LDL-C = 120 mg/dL

This calculator provides a quick estimate, but always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis, interpretation of your lipid profile, and personalized medical advice.