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 100 units per liter (U/L) to 190 U/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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Credits
| Author | Bets Davis, MFA |
| Editor | Maria Essig |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology |
| Last Updated | April 22, 2008 |
