M+QuickMedCalc
Educational reference only. Not a diagnostic tool. See full disclaimer.
CardiacNon-HDL Cholesterol

Non-HDL Cholesterol Calculator

Calculate non-HDL cholesterol from total cholesterol and HDL-C.

Content updated: View sources

Non-HDL cholesterol

Calculated lipid value; no risk or treatment category is assigned

About

Non-HDL cholesterol subtracts HDL-C from total cholesterol and therefore includes LDL-C plus cholesterol carried in other atherogenic, apolipoprotein B-containing particles.

Formula

Non-HDL cholesterol = total cholesterol − HDL cholesterol

Interpretation

What the result represents: A calculated cholesterol concentration encompassing cholesterol outside HDL.

Input units: Each value may use mg/dL or mmol/L independently; the calculator converts both before subtraction.

Worked example: Total cholesterol 200 mg/dL minus HDL 50 mg/dL gives 150 mg/dL.

Applicable population: People with a lipid panel containing total cholesterol and HDL-C.

Interpretation limitations: A single value does not assign cardiovascular risk or select a statin, dose, or treatment target. Goals depend on the applicable guideline, disease background, overall risk, and the complete lipid profile.

References

  1. MedlinePlus. Cholesterol Levels: What You Need to Know.
  2. Ridker PM, et al. Non-HDL cholesterol and other lipid measures as cardiovascular risk factors in women. JAMA. 2005.
  3. American Heart Association. 2026 Guideline on the Management of Dyslipidemia.

FAQ

Related Calculators

Disclaimer

Educational and informational reference only. Not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or independent verification.