How this calculator works
Ratios divide one measured lipid concentration by HDL. Cholesterol/cholesterol ratios are unchanged when both use the same unit system. Triglycerides have a different mass-to-mole factor, so both conventions are displayed. Reverse calculations use the ratio convention selected by the laboratory units field. The result is an estimate for information only and is not medical advice.
Formula
Total/HDL = TC / HDL; LDL/HDL = LDL / HDL; TG/HDL = TG / HDL in the stated units. Numerator = ratio x HDL. HDL = numerator / ratio.
Worked example
With TC 200, HDL 50, LDL 120 and TG 150 mg/dL, TC/HDL is 4, LDL/HDL is 2.4 and TG/HDL is 3 in mg/dL. The molar TG/HDL ratio is about 1.3098.
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Frequently asked questions
Why are there two triglyceride ratios?
The conversion factors differ: 38.67 for cholesterol and 88.57 for triglycerides. A threshold published for one convention cannot be used unchanged with the other.
Can HDL be zero?
No. A ratio with HDL in its denominator requires a positive HDL value.
Are ratios a complete risk assessment?
No. They describe the profile but do not replace LDL, non-HDL, other risk factors or clinical assessment. This page applies no diagnostic ratio cut-off.