Description
Serum, Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme present extensively in body tissues, such as blood cells, skeletal muscles, kidneys, brain, and lungs. The tissue levels of this enzyme are 500 fold higher than those normally present in the serum. Thus any cells or tissue damage elevates the serum level of LDH to a significant extent. Thus, increased LDH level in blood is generally an indication of cellular damage. Medicas offers an affordable Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) test with the free home collection., Non Fasting
Sample Required:
A blood sample is required for an LDH test. Blood is typically drawn from a vein in your arm.
Test Time:
The results of an LDH test are usually available within a few hours to a day, depending on the laboratory’s processing time.
Test Normal Range:
The normal range for LDH levels can vary slightly between different laboratories. In general, the normal range for LDH in adults is approximately 140 to 280 international units per liter (IU/L).
What is the Test?
The LDH test measures the level of lactate dehydrogenase, an enzyme, in your blood. LDH is found in many body tissues and is released into the bloodstream when cells are damaged or destroyed. High LDH levels may indicate various medical conditions, including tissue damage, certain diseases, or muscle injury.
Test Procedure:
The LDH test involves the following steps:
A healthcare provider will clean the site (usually the inside of your elbow) where blood will be drawn.
A needle is used to draw a blood sample from a vein.
Blood is collected in a separate tube and delivered to a laboratory for analysis.
In the lab, the level of LDH in the blood sample is measured.
When to Take the Test:
An LDH test may be ordered by a healthcare provider if they suspect tissue or cell damage due to a medical condition. It can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as heart attack, liver disease, anemia, and certain cancers.
Who Should Take This Test:
Individuals with symptoms or medical conditions that may lead to elevated LDH levels may undergo this test under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Precautions for Exceptional Cases (Pregnancy, etc.):
There are typically no specific precautions related to pregnancy or exceptional cases for the LDH test. However, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history and any medications or supplements you are taking.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q1: What can high LDH levels indicate?
A: High LDH levels can suggest various medical conditions, including tissue damage, heart attack, liver disease, anemia, certain cancers (such as lymphoma), and muscle injury.
Q2: Can exercise affect LDH levels?
A: Intense exercise can lead to temporary increases in LDH levels due to muscle injury, but these levels usually return to normal with rest.
Q3: Are there any risks associated with an LDH test?
A: Taking a blood sample involves minimal risks, such as bleeding or infection at the puncture site. These risks are generally very low.
Q4: How is LDH used in diagnosing diseases?
A: LDH is often used in conjunction with other tests and clinical information to help diagnose and monitor various diseases. It is not specific to a single condition but can provide important clues to a healthcare provider.
Q5: What should I do if my LDH levels are elevated?
A: Elevated LDH levels require further evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause. Treatment or further testing will depend on the specific diagnosis.
