A complete cholesterol test — also called a lipid panel or lipid profile — is a blood test that

can measure the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood.

A cholesterol test can help determine your risk of the buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in

your arteries that can lead to narrowed or blocked arteries throughout your body

(atherosclerosis). A cholesterol test is an important tool. High cholesterol levels often are a

significant risk factor for coronary artery disease.