Our patient's lipoprotein profile is shown here. His total cholesterol level is elevated, as is his low density lipoprotein or "bad cholesterol." his high density lipoprotein or "good cholesterol" is reduced, and his triglycerides are normal. Note the goals for our patient. In general, the lower the total and LDL cholesterol levels, the better, and the higher the HDL cholesterol, the better*.

*Long established clinical standards would suggest an LDL goal less than 70 for patients with coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus or high risk of cardiac disease. However, newer guidelines have de-emphasized specific lipids targets, favoring aggressive statin therapy for high risk groups.