LDL Particle Size levels: what's normal, high and low
The average diameter of your LDL particles. Larger is generally healthier.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
The short answer
LDL Particle Size is measured with a standard blood draw after an 8–12 hour fast. A typical reference range is 20.6 – 22.0 nm. At TestWell it's $70.99 all-in as Advanced Cholesterol Particle Test (NMR), results in 3–5 business days, drawn at Labcorp. An out-of-range result is a prompt to look closer, not a diagnosis.
- Units
- nm
- Sample
- Blood draw
- Fasting
- 8–12 hours
- Results
- 3–5 business days
- Price
- $70.99
- Labs
- Labcorp
LDL Particle Size Reference Range
These are the typical adult reference ranges used by major US labs. Your report will include the specific range used by the lab that processed your sample.
| Population | Range |
|---|---|
| age 18+ | 20.6 – 22.0 nm |
Reference ranges are educational. Always interpret your result with the specific range printed on your lab report and discuss anything outside the range with a clinician.
What your LDL Particle Size result may mean
Smaller LDL particles (<20.5 nm) are more atherogenic and often linked to insulin resistance.
What a low LDL Particle Size means: causes, symptoms, next steps →Educational only — not a diagnosis. Many factors can influence a single result. Discuss anything that concerns you with a healthcare provider.
How do you get a LDL Particle Size test?
Order online, a licensed physician reviews the requisition, and you walk into a nearby lab for the draw. LDL Particle Size is available on its own or inside these panels — panels cost less per marker when you want the fuller picture.
| Option | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Cholesterol Particle Test (NMR) | This marker only | $70.99 |
Quest vs. Labcorp for LDL Particle Size: which lab should you pick?
Both are CLIA-certified national labs and the result is clinically equivalent, so pick whichever location is closer. Your report will print that lab's own reference range, which can differ slightly from the table above.
| Lab | Available | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Quest Diagnostics | No | — |
| Labcorp | Yes | $70.99 |
| BioReference (NY & NJ) | No | — |
Need help choosing a location? Use the lab finder to see draw sites near your ZIP.
Related Heart Health biomarkers
Markers commonly tested alongside LDL Particle Size.
Frequently asked
Smaller LDL particles (<20.5 nm) are more atherogenic and often linked to insulin resistance. A single result below the reference range is a prompt to look closer with a clinician — often a repeat test and related markers — not a diagnosis on its own.
Ready to test your ldl particle size?
Order in two minutes, get physician-approved, and visit a lab the same day. Starts at $70.99.