WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
  • Bookmark This Page
  • Site Map
  • Sign up for WebMD Newsletters

Medical Dictionary

cholesterol

Pronunciation (kō-les′ter-ol)
Font Size
A
A
A
  1. 5-cholesten-3β-ol (cholestane with a 5,6 double bond and a 3β-hydroxyl group); the most abundant steroid in animal tissues, especially in bile and gallstones, and present in food, especially food rich in animal fats; circulates in the plasma complexed to proteins of various densities and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of atheroma formation in arteries; a precursor of steroid hormones. See also: lipoprotein

WebMD Medical Reference from "Stedman's Medical Dictionary"

The publisher is not responsible (as a matter of product liability, negligence or otherwise) for any injury resulting from any material contained herein. This publication contains information relating to general principles of medical care which should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients. Manufacturers’ product information and package inserts should be reviewed for current information, including contraindications, dosages and precautions.
webMD Video

click to expand/contract  IBS Trigger Foods

Everyone's IBS is different, but most sufferers have these symptom triggers in common.

Watch Video

click to expand/contract  Hunger vs. Cravings

click to expand/contract  Killer Abs

click to expand/contract  Truth About Naps

click to expand/contract  Better Sex Exercises

Most Popular Stories