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"High Density Lipoprotein"

By Jennifer Moll, About.com

Updated: January 8, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Rich Fogoros, MD

Definition: High density lipoproteins, also known as HDL, are molecules consisting of cholesterol and protein that carry cholesterol back from tissues or organs to the liver, where cholesterol will be degraded or recycled.

HDL is also known as the "good cholesterol", because it removes excess cholesterol from circulation.

Also Known As: HDL, good cholesterol

Common Misspellings: high density lipoprotien

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