Lactate is a product of glucose metabolism, that is, it is the result of the process of converting glucose into energy for cells when there is not enough oxygen, a process called anaerobic glycolysis; however, even in aerobic conditions, where there is oxygen., lactate is produced, but in smaller amounts.
Lactate is an important substance because it is considered a signal for the central nervous system, a biomarker of nervous disorders and tissue hypoperfusion, in which little oxygen reaches the tissues, and intensity of physical activity and muscle fatigue, since the more The more intense the activity, the greater the need for oxygen and energy, which leads to higher laate production.
- The lactate test is widely used in clinical practice in hospitalized patients and as an indicator of physical activity intensity and muscle fatigue.
- In hospitals.
- The lactate dose is important for assessing the patient’s overall condition and verifying the response to treatment.
- The dose is usually performed in hospitalized patients with suspected or diagnosed septicaemia or septic shock.
- Which are situations characterized by lactate greater than 2 mmol/L in addition to low blood pressure.
- Rapid breathing.
- Decreased urine production and confusion.
Thus, when performing lactate dosing, it is possible to check whether the patient is responding to treatment or if it is necessary to modify the treatment plan and increase care in response to the decrease or increase in lactate levels.
In sport, lactate dosing determines the athlete’s performance level and exercise intensity; in very intense or long-lasting physical activities, the amount of oxygen available is not always sufficient, requiring lactate production to maintain cellular activity.Measuring the amount of lactate after physical activity allows the physical educator to indicate a more appropriate training plan for the athlete.
The lactate value is considered normal when it is less than or equal to 2 mmol/L, the higher the lactate concentration, the more serious the disease In the case of sepsis, for example, concentrations of 4.0 mmol/L or more can, indicating that treatment should be initiated as soon as possible to avoid complications.
Fasting is not necessary to perform the lactate test, but it is recommended that the person be at rest, as physical activity can alter lactate levels and therefore influence the test result.
Increased concentration of circulating lactate, called hyperlactemia, can occur due to increased lactate production, changes in oxygen supply to tissues, or a deficit in the removal of this substance from the body, resulting in its accumulation in the blood.lactate may occur due to:
In addition, some studies have shown that increased lactate can occur in cases of liver and kidney problems, diabetes mellitus, drug poisoning and toxins and metabolic acidosis, for example, so from the assessment of lactate concentration it is possible to diagnose diseases, monitor the patient’s progress and response to treatment and predict the clinical outcome.