Main content Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH)

    Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH)



    Exam Overview

    Lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) is an Reference enzyme Opens New Window that helps produce energy. It is present in almost all of the tissues in the body and its levels rise 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, Reference lymphoma Opens New Window, Reference anemia Opens New Window, 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 increases in LDH levels. Other tests are usually needed to confirm a diagnosis.

    Complete the medical test information form (PDF) Click here to view a form. (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?) to help you prepare for this test.



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