High LDH: What Does It Mean in a Blood Test?

Overview

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found in many tissues and involved in cellular energy production. An elevated blood level does not identify one particular organ or diagnosis.

How should results or symptoms be assessed?

Muscle injury, liver disorders, breakdown of blood cells and sample haemolysis can influence LDH. Clinicians interpret it with symptoms and other tests such as a blood count, liver enzymes and CK.

Practical next steps

Bring the laboratory reference range, previous results and recent exercise history to your appointment. A repeat sample or targeted investigations may be more useful than treating a number alone.

When is medical help needed?

Severe chest pain, shortness of breath or major weakness needs urgent assessment, regardless of the LDH result.

Frequently asked questions

Can this article establish a diagnosis or treatment?

No. An individual history, examination and sometimes further tests are needed.

What should I prepare for a consultation?

Note when symptoms began, past reports, your medicines and questions so you can discuss them clearly.

Online advice cannot replace an in-person examination when one is required.

This article provides general information and is not individual medical advice.

Reference: https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/lactate-dehydrogenase-ldh-test/