🔍 What is the LDH Test?
The LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) Test measures the level of LDH enzyme in the blood. LDH is found in almost all body tissues, and its release into the bloodstream occurs when cells are damaged. This test helps detect tissue injury, organ damage, infections, and diseases like cancer or anemia.
🎯 Purpose of the Test
Detect cell and tissue damage
Help diagnose liver, heart, lung, or muscle diseases
Assess anemia, infections, and cancers
Monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness
📊 Normal Ranges & Interpretation (May vary by lab method)
Age Group
Normal LDH Range (U/L)
Adults
140 – 280 U/L
Children
100 – 350 U/L
Newborns
160 – 450 U/L
🔺 High LDH Levels May Indicate:
Heart attack, stroke, or muscle damage
Liver diseases (Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, Liver Failure)
Lung diseases (Pneumonia, Pulmonary Embolism, COVID-19)
Blood disorders (Hemolytic Anemia, Leukemia, Lymphoma)
Cancer & metastasis
🔻 Low LDH Levels: Rare, but may be linked to genetic disorders or high vitamin C intake.
📝 Additional Testing May Include:
LDH Isoenzyme Test (Identifies specific organ/tissue damage)
Complete Blood Count (CBC) (For anemia or infection assessment)
Liver & Kidney Function Tests (To evaluate organ health)
Troponin & CK-MB Tests (For heart attack diagnosis)
👩‍⚕️ When Should You Get Tested?
Unexplained fatigue, weakness, or pain
Signs of infection, inflammation, or organ damage
After a heart attack, stroke, or muscle injury
Monitoring conditions like cancer, anemia, or chronic illness