What does the HDL Cholesterol test measure?

The HDL Cholesterol test specifically measures the levels of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in the blood. HDL is often referred to as the "good" cholesterol because it helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated. High levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a lower risk of heart disease, making this test important in assessing cardiovascular health.

In the context of other choices, total cholesterol levels encompass LDL, HDL, and triglycerides combined, which is not the focus of the HDL test. Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol is related but represents the "bad" cholesterol that can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries if levels are too high. Similarly, triglycerides are another type of fat found in the blood that is measured separately and serves a different purpose in assessing lipid health. Therefore, the primary and direct measurement from the HDL Cholesterol test is indeed the levels of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol.