LDL Particle Number · high result
What does a high LDL Particle Number mean?
Short answer
LDL particle number (LDL-P) counts the LDL particles themselves rather than the cholesterol they carry. It is high when there are many small, cholesterol-poor particles — the pattern of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome — and can be high even when LDL-C looks acceptable, a mismatch called discordance. Above 1,000 nmol/L is above optimal; above 1,600 is high. ApoB gives the same information on a standard panel.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for LDL Particle Number?
- age 18+: 0.000 – 1000 nmol/L
Above 1000 nmol/L is considered above optimal; above 1600 is high. A leading risk marker when LDL-C and LDL-P disagree.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: LDL Particle Number biomarker page.
What are the common causes of high LDL Particle Number?
- Insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, central obesity
- High triglycerides (shifts LDL toward small particles)
- Familial hypercholesterolemia and combined hyperlipidemia
- Hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome
- Diet high in refined carbohydrates; inactivity
What symptoms go with high LDL Particle Number?
- None
What do clinicians usually check next?
- ApoB (equivalent, cheaper, standardized), A1c, fasting insulin, triglycerides
- Treat the driver — insulin resistance responds to weight loss, activity and carbohydrate reduction
- Statin or other therapy decisions use LDL-P/ApoB alongside standard risk factors
How do you recheck LDL Particle Number?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Lipid Panel | Test · 8 biomarkers | $90.99 | Yes | 3–5 business days |
Common questions
My LDL cholesterol is normal but LDL-P is high — which is right?
Both are right; they measure different things. When they disagree, particle number (or ApoB) tracks risk better, because plaque forms from particles entering the artery wall, not from the cholesterol they carry.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.