Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)

Also known as: LD; Lactate dehydrogenase; Lactic dehydrogenase; Total LDH; LDH isoenzymes
Formal name: Lactate dehydrogenase, Total and Isoenzymes
Related tests: CK (Creatine Kinase); CK-MB; Troponin; Myoglobin; Liver Panel; CSF Analysis; Body Fluid Analysis; Tumor Markers


  • Why should I do it?

To help identify the cause and location of tissue damage in the body and to monitor its progress; LDH is elevated in a wide variety of conditions, reflecting its widespread tissue distribution; historically, it has been used to help diagnose and monitor a heart attack, but troponin has largely replaced LDH in this role.


  • When should I do it?

Along with other tests, when your doctor suspects that you have an acute or chronic condition that is causing tissue or cellular destruction and he wants to identify the source of the damage and monitor the problem


  • What Kind of Sample is Needed?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm


  • Test Preparation Needed?