A lipid panel, also called a cholesterol test, measures the fats (lipids) in your blood. The measurements can indicate your risk of having a heart attack or other heart disease. The panel typically includes measurements of: 1. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol "bad cholesterol." High levels cause a build up of fatty deposits (plaques) in your arteries (atherosclerosis.)This leads to major heart and vascular problems. 2. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, "good cholesterol." This helps carry away LDL cholesterol, thus keeping arteries open and your blood flowing more freely. 3. Triglycerides. This is another type of fat in the blood. Usually caused by eatin gmore calories than you burn. High levels increase your risk of heart disease. 4. Total cholesterol. This is a sum of your blood's cholesterol content. A high level can put you at increased risk of heart disease.