The Martin-Hopkins method estimates VLDL using which approach?

• A. TAG divided by a fixed factor
• B. TAG divided by an adjustable factor
• C. Direct measurement of VLDL
• D. Non-HDL cholesterol

Answer: (B)

The Martin-Hopkins method estimates VLDL-C by dividing triglycerides by an adjustable factor rather than a fixed number. This factor changes based on the patient’s lipid profile (often using TG and non-HDL-C data), which better reflects how much cholesterol is carried by VLDL at different triglyceride levels. This tailored estimation improves accuracy of VLDL-C, and thus LDL-C, especially when triglycerides vary widely. It doesn't rely on direct VLDL measurement or on a single fixed divisor like Friedewald's method.