Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
Disclaimer: Information on this page is for educational purposes. Consult a physician to interpret your test results. Health Vault helps track biomarker trends but does not replace medical advice.
What This Test Measures
LDH is a nonspecific enzyme present in many tissues. It rises with cell damage: hemolysis, infarction, tumors, hepatitis.
LDH monitors lymphoma, seminoma, and assesses hemolysis.
Isolated elevation requires clinical context — LDH alone is poorly specific.
Normal Ranges
| Group | Reference Range |
|---|---|
| Men | 135–225 U/L |
| Women | 135–225 U/L |
| Children | 125–290 U/L |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay method.
Causes of High Levels
- Hemolytic anemia
- Myocardial infarction
- Liver disease
- Malignancy (lymphoma)
- Rhabdomyolysis
Causes of Low Levels
- Rarely clinically significant
Test Preparation
- No special preparation
- Report recent trauma or hemolysis symptoms
Related Biomarkers
| Biomarker | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) | Tissue injury |
| Total Bilirubin | Hemolysis |
| Reticulocytes | Regenerative anemia |
FAQ
How often should I take this test?
With known malignancy — per oncology protocol; with hemolysis — during flares.
What should I do if my result is abnormal?
New unexplained elevation — expanded workup as directed.
Last updated: June 2026