LDH test (lactic dehydrogenase): which is and what it means

LDH, also known as lactic dehydrogenase or lactate dehydrogenase, is an enzyme found in cells responsible for glucose metabolism in the body, this enzyme can be found in various organs and tissues and therefore its elevation is not specific, so additional tests are performed.recommended to make a diagnosis.

In the case of an altered LDH result, in addition to other tests, your doctor may indicate the dose of LDH isoenzymes, the elevation of which may indicate more specific changes:

  • Normal lactate dehydrogenase values may vary by laboratory and are typically considered between 120 and 246 IU/L in adults.

The LDH test can be requested by the doctor as a routine test, along with other laboratory tests, however, this test is mainly indicated in case of an investigation of cardiac problems, requesting with Creatinophosphokinase (CK) and troponin, or alterations liver, being also requested the measurement of TGO / AST (Oxalacetic Transaminase / Aspartate Aminotransferase), TGP / ALT (Pyruvic Glutamic Transaminase / Alanine Aminotransferase) and GGT (gamma glutamyl). Learn about other tests that evaluate the liver.

To perform the test, most of the time, it is not necessary to fast or any other type of preparation, however some laboratories indicate that it is necessary for the person to be fasting for at least 4 hours, so before performing the review, It is important to inform the laboratory of the appropriate procedure, in addition to informing about the use of the drugs.

Increased LDH usually indicates damage to organs or tissues.As a result of cell damage, the LDH contained in the cells is released and circulated in the bloodstream, and their concentration is evaluated by a blood test.can be seen are:

Some situations can increase LDH levels without indicating disease, especially if other requested laboratory parameters are normal. Some of the conditions that can alter blood LDH levels are vigorous physical activity, the use of certain medications, and pregnancy.

The decrease in the amount of lactic dehydrogenase in the blood is generally not a cause for concern and is not related to the disease and is not a cause for research.In some cases, decreased HDD may be related to excess vitamin C and changes in the person’s eating habits may be recommended.

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