LDH Test

What is It?

The LDH test measures the level of an enzyme called lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in your blood. LDH is found in many tissues throughout your body, including your heart, liver, kidneys, and muscles. This enzyme plays a role in converting sugar into energy for your cells.

Why is the LDH Test Important?

• It helps assess tissue damage or disease. High levels of LDH can indicate that cells are damaged or dying.

• The test can help diagnose various conditions, including liver disease, heart attack, certain cancers, and infections.

• Monitoring LDH levels can also help track the progress of certain diseases or the effectiveness of treatments.

How is the Test Done?

1. A healthcare provider will take a small blood sample from a vein in your arm.

2. The blood sample is sent to a lab, where the LDH levels are measured.

3. Your doctor will review the results to evaluate your health.

What Do the Results Mean?

• Normal levels of LDH typically range from 140 to 280 units per liter, but this can vary by lab.

• High levels of LDH may suggest tissue damage, which could be due to a variety of conditions, such as:

• Liver disease (like hepatitis or cirrhosis)

• Heart attack

• Certain cancers

• Hemolytic anemia (when red blood cells break down too quickly)

What Should You Do Before the Test?

1. No special preparation is usually needed.

2. Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as some can affect LDH levels.

What Happens After the Test?

Your doctor will discuss your results with you:

• If your LDH levels are high, further tests may be needed to determine the cause and assess your overall health.

• If the levels are normal, it usually indicates that there’s no significant tissue damage.

In summary, the LDH test is a simple blood test that helps evaluate your health by measuring an important enzyme linked to tissue damage, providing valuable information for diagnosing and managing various medical conditions.