Cholesterol mg/dL → mmol/L
Convert cholesterol from mg/dL to mmol/L
Sources last checked: 2026-11-03
Cholesterol mg/dL → mmol/L
Convert cholesterol from mg/dL to mmol/L
Converts units only; reference ranges depend on the laboratory, the assay and the patient.
What is the Cholesterol mg/dL → mmol/L?
This converter turns total cholesterol from mg/dL, the unit on most lab reports in Germany, Austria, Turkey and the USA, into mmol/L, the SI unit used in the UK, Scandinavia, the Netherlands and many European guidelines. It multiplies by 0.0259, the factor in the AMA Manual of Style SI table, which is 10 ÷ the molar mass of cholesterol (386.7 g/mol) rounded to three significant figures.
When to use it
- Entering a mg/dL result into a risk tool or guideline table written in mmol/L
- Comparing a lipid panel from a German, Austrian or Turkish lab with one from a lab reporting SI units
- Reading UK, Scandinavian or Dutch papers and guidelines that give cholesterol only in mmol/L
- Exam questions and case reports that mix both unit systems
When not to use it
- Triglycerides — they have a different molar mass and need their own factor
- Interpreting the result: reference ranges and treatment targets depend on the laboratory and the guideline used
How it is calculated
Cholesterol (mmol/L) = cholesterol (mg/dL) × 0.0259
Clinical pearls and limitations
- Converts units only; reference ranges depend on the laboratory, the assay and the patient.
- The same factor applies to every cholesterol fraction (total, LDL, HDL, non-HDL), because each is reported as mass of cholesterol.
- 1 mg/dL = 0.0259 mmol/L; a one-decimal mmol/L value corresponds to a step of roughly 4 mg/dL.
- Non-HDL cholesterol is total minus HDL cholesterol; subtract in one unit, then convert, to avoid compounding rounding.
- Many European guidelines print both units side by side; when they do, use the printed pair rather than re-converting a rounded value.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert cholesterol from mg/dL to mmol/L?
Multiply by 0.0259. For example, 200 mg/dL × 0.0259 = 5.18 mmol/L.
What is 130 mg/dL cholesterol in mmol/L?
130 × 0.0259 = 3.367, which rounds to 3.37 mmol/L.
Where does the factor 0.0259 come from?
Cholesterol has a molar mass of 386.7 g/mol. 1 mg/dL is 10 mg/L, and 10 ÷ 386.7 gives about 0.0259 mmol/L.
Evidence and guidelines
Have a follow-up question?
Medelix answers clinical questions from current guidelines and studies — every statement with its source.
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<p><a href="https://medelix.ai/en/calculators/cholesterol-mg-dl-to-mmol-l">Cholesterol mg/dL → mmol/L calculator by Medelix</a></p>For healthcare professionals and medical students. These tools support, and do not replace, clinical judgement. Always check results against the original source and your local protocols.