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Lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH)

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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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

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: April 22, 2008

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