The Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Blood Test measures the level of LDH, an enzyme found in nearly all of the body’s cells. LDH plays a critical role in energy production by converting lactate to pyruvate, a key compound in metabolism. Elevated levels of LDH in the blood can indicate a variety of medical conditions, including tissue damage, infections, and certain cancers. This test is used to assess overall health, diagnose conditions, and monitor treatment progress.

What Is Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)?

Lactate dehydrogenase is an enzyme found in many tissues throughout the body, including the heart, liver, kidneys, muscles, and red blood cells. LDH is released into the bloodstream when tissues are damaged or destroyed. The LDH blood test measures the concentration of this enzyme in the blood and can provide valuable insight into the extent and location of tissue damage.

Why Is the LDH Blood Test Performed?

The LDH test is commonly ordered to:

  • Assess tissue damage or cell death in organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, or muscles.
  • Diagnose conditions such as heart attacks, liver disease, kidney failure, and blood disorders.
  • Monitor cancer treatment or the progression of diseases like lymphoma and leukemia.
  • Evaluate the severity of certain infections and inflammatory conditions.

Symptoms That May Lead to an LDH Test

Your doctor may recommend an LDH blood test if you experience:

  • Unexplained pain or swelling in the chest, abdomen, or muscles
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fever or unexplained weight loss
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Signs of organ dysfunction, such as dark urine or abnormal bowel movements

How Is the Test Conducted?

  1. Sample Collection: A healthcare provider will take a blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm.
  2. Lab Analysis: The blood sample is analyzed to measure the amount of LDH in your bloodstream.
  3. Results Interpretation:
    • Normal LDH Levels: Typical LDH levels vary depending on age, gender, and the laboratory, but they generally range from 140 to 280 U/L.
    • Elevated LDH Levels: High levels of LDH indicate damage to tissues or organs and may be a sign of underlying conditions such as heart attacks, liver disease, anemia, or infections.

What Do Abnormal LDH Levels Mean?

  • Elevated LDH Levels: High LDH levels are often linked to tissue damage or destruction. Common causes of elevated LDH include:
    • Heart attacks or myocardial infarctions (damage to heart muscle)
    • Liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis
    • Kidney failure or damage
    • Blood disorders like hemolytic anemia
    • Cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia, and melanoma
    • Infections or inflammatory conditions like pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis
  • Low LDH Levels: Low LDH levels are not typically associated with any specific medical conditions and are generally considered less of a concern.

Common Conditions Linked to Elevated LDH Levels

  • Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): Elevated LDH is a marker of heart muscle damage.
  • Liver Disease: Hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver damage from alcohol or medications can cause high LDH levels.
  • Kidney Damage: Kidney failure or injury often results in increased LDH levels.
  • Cancer: Some types of cancer, especially lymphoma, leukemia, and melanoma, are associated with high LDH levels.
  • Blood Disorders: Conditions such as anemia, hemolysis, or leukemia can cause LDH to rise.
  • Infections: Severe infections like pneumonia or sepsis can also result in elevated LDH levels.

Preparation and Risks

  • Preparation: No special preparation is typically needed for the LDH test. However, be sure to inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, as some drugs can affect LDH levels.
  • Risks: The blood draw involves minimal risks, such as slight bruising or discomfort at the needle site.

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