How this calculator works
VLDL cholesterol is estimated from fasting triglycerides. The DeLong alternative is identified by its actual publication rather than labelled a universal correction for hyperlipidaemia. Both are empirical relations, not direct measurements. This tool restricts both to TG below 400 mg/dL and does not model abnormal lipoprotein composition. The result is an estimate for information only and is not medical advice.
Formula
Using mg/dL: Friedewald VLDL-C = TG/5; DeLong VLDL-C = 0.16 x TG. Rearranging gives TG = 5 x VLDL-C or TG = VLDL-C/0.16. Convert cholesterol and triglycerides with their separate factors.
Worked example
TG 150 mg/dL gives VLDL cholesterol 30 by Friedewald or 24 by DeLong. TG 100 gives 20 or 16 mg/dL. These are cholesterol concentrations carried in VLDL, not triglyceride concentrations.
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Frequently asked questions
Is VLDL cholesterol the same as triglycerides?
No. The equation estimates the cholesterol component from triglycerides using an empirical ratio.
Does DeLong solve high-triglyceride limitations?
No. The original authors reported improved precision within the normal triglyceride range. It should not be presented as a validated correction for every form of hyperlipidaemia.
Why are two SI conversions different?
Triglycerides use 88.57 mg/dL per mmol/L; cholesterol uses 38.67. The output is converted as cholesterol.