Results & Interpretation

ApoB

80.0 mg/dL

0.83 mmol/L

LDL Cholesterol

100.0 mg/dL

2.59 mmol/L

ApoB : LDL Ratio

0.80

Particles per unit cholesterol

Typical Interpretation (Non‑Diagnostic)

Typical ratio: ApoB is approximately 0.8‑0.9 times the LDL‑C value in mg/dL. This alignment is common in standard lipid panels.

Understanding ApoB and LDL Cholesterol

ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) measures the number of atherogenic lipoprotein particles, while LDL‑C (Low‑Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol) estimates the cholesterol mass within those particles. The ratio can hint at particle size/density patterns.

How to Use This Tool

Enter your lab values in either unit (mg/dL or mmol/L).
Convert between units instantly to compare with guidelines.
Review the ratio and typical interpretation.
Use the “What‑If” helper below to explore scenarios.

Examples to Try

Case 1: ApoB = 90 mg/dL, LDL‑C = 100 mg/dL → Ratio = 0.90 (typical alignment).
Case 2: ApoB = 120 mg/dL, LDL‑C = 100 mg/dL → Ratio = 1.20 (suggests more, smaller/dense particles).
Case 3: ApoB = 0.65 mmol/L, LDL‑C = 2.0 mmol/L → Both in mmol/L, ratio = 0.325 (unit‑dependent).

Reference Table: Typical Ranges (Adults)

Metric	Optimal	Near Optimal	Borderline High	High
ApoB (mg/dL)	< 80	80‑99	100‑119	≥ 120
LDL‑C (mg/dL)	< 100	100‑129	130‑159	≥ 160
Ratio (mg/dL)	0.7‑0.9	0.9‑1.1	1.1‑1.3	> 1.3

Note: Ranges vary by population, health status, and guidelines. Always discuss personal targets with your clinician.

What‑If Scenario Helper

Adjust hypothetical ApoB or LDL values to see how the ratio changes. Useful for understanding treatment goals.

Hypothetical ApoB: 100 mg/dL

Hypothetical LDL‑C: 100 mg/dL

Projected Ratio

1.00

Interpretation Hint

Typical alignment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ApoB:LDL ratio diagnostic?

No. The ratio is a non‑diagnostic helper that may indicate particle size patterns (e.g., higher ratios can suggest more small, dense LDL particles). Only advanced lipid testing can confirm particle characteristics.

Why do units matter so much?

ApoB and LDL‑C in mg/dL have a typical 1:1 mass ratio, but in mmol/L the numbers differ because molecular weights differ. Always compare values in the same unit.

When should I seek professional help?

If your lab values are outside recommended ranges, or if you have risk factors (family history, diabetes, hypertension), consult a clinician for personalized assessment and management.

How can I measure ApoB at home?

You can't. ApoB requires a blood test ordered by a healthcare provider. Home cholesterol tests typically only measure total, HDL, and calculated LDL.

Formulas & Assumptions

Unit conversion: 1 mmol/L ApoB ≈ 0.011 g/L ≈ 110 mg/dL (using approximate molecular weight). For simplicity: 1 mmol/L = 110 mg/dL.

Unit conversion for LDL‑C: 1 mmol/L = 38.67 mg/dL (standard factor).

Ratio calculation: ApoB (mg/dL) / LDL‑C (mg/dL). Values in mmol/L are first converted to mg/dL.

Rounding: All results shown to 2 decimal places. Intermediate calculations use full precision.

Interpretation bands: Ratio < 0.7 = lower particle count; 0.7‑0.9 = typical; 0.9‑1.1 = moderate; >1.1 = higher particle count.

ApoB to LDL Reference Helper

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ApoB to LDL Reference Helper

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