Martin-Hopkins LDL-C Calculator
Estimate LDL cholesterol using the Martin-Hopkins adjustable triglyceride-to-VLDL-C factor based on triglycerides and non-HDL cholesterol.
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LDL-C General Categories
| LDL-C | Category | General Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| <70 mg/dL | Very low | May be an appropriate treatment target for selected high-risk patients. |
| 70–99 mg/dL | Near optimal | Generally favorable LDL-C level. |
| 100–129 mg/dL | Near optimal / Above optimal | Clinical significance depends on overall cardiovascular risk. |
| 130–159 mg/dL | Borderline high | May warrant lifestyle and risk-based assessment. |
| 160–189 mg/dL | High | Associated with increased cardiovascular risk. |
| ≥190 mg/dL | Very high | Marked elevation requiring clinical evaluation. |
About the Martin-Hopkins Method
The Martin-Hopkins method replaces the fixed triglyceride-to-VLDL cholesterol factor used in the traditional Friedewald equation with an adjustable factor derived from triglyceride and non-HDL cholesterol concentrations.
The original Martin-Hopkins method was developed for triglyceride concentrations below 400 mg/dL. The extended Martin-Hopkins method uses an expanded stratification system and has been evaluated for triglyceride concentrations from approximately 400 to 799 mg/dL.
Therefore, this calculator uses the extended factor table when triglycerides are in the higher validated range.
Martin-Hopkins LDL-C Calculator - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Martin-Hopkins equation?
It is an LDL-C estimation method that replaces the fixed triglyceride divided by 5 term of the Friedewald equation with an adjustable factor based on triglycerides and non-HDL-C.
Why is the denominator not always 5?
The triglyceride-to-VLDL-C relationship varies between patients. Martin-Hopkins therefore uses an empirically derived adjustable factor rather than assuming a universal factor of 5.
Can Martin-Hopkins be used when triglycerides are 400 mg/dL or higher?
The original Martin-Hopkins method was validated below 400 mg/dL. An extended Martin-Hopkins method was subsequently developed for triglycerides approximately 400 to 799 mg/dL.
Can this calculator be used when triglycerides are 800 mg/dL or higher?
No. This calculator does not report a Martin-Hopkins LDL-C estimate at triglycerides of 800 mg/dL or higher because this is outside the validated range of the extended method.
What is non-HDL cholesterol?
Non-HDL cholesterol is calculated as total cholesterol minus HDL cholesterol. It represents cholesterol contained in LDL, VLDL, IDL and other atherogenic particles.
Is Martin-Hopkins better than Friedewald?
Martin-Hopkins generally provides better LDL-C estimation, particularly when LDL-C is low and triglycerides are elevated. Clinical interpretation should still consider the complete lipid profile and cardiovascular risk.
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator is intended for educational and clinical reference purposes. Estimated LDL-C is not a direct measurement. Results should be interpreted together with the complete lipid profile, clinical history, cardiovascular risk and other relevant laboratory findings. This tool does not replace professional medical evaluation.
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