Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH)

Exam Overview

Lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme that helps produce energy. It is present in almost all of the tissues in the body and becomes elevated in response to cell damage. LDH levels are measured from a sample of blood taken from a vein.

Why It Is Done

LDH levels help diagnose lung disease, lymphoma, anemia, and liver disease. They also help determine how well chemotherapy is working during treatment for lymphoma.

Results

Lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme that helps produce energy. Results may vary widely from lab to lab.

Normal LDH levels range from 140 units per liter (U/L) to 280 U/L or 2.34 mkat/L to 4.68 mkat/L.

What To Think About

Many diseases can cause elevations in LDH levels. Other tests are usually needed to confirm a diagnosis.

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By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: April 19, 2010
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology

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