Ldh – normal. elevated lactate dehydrogenase

Lactate dehydrogenase, also known as LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase), is an enzyme present in many cells of the body that plays a key role in metabolic processes. However, when LDH levels rise above normal, it may indicate various health conditions. In this article we will discuss LDH – what it is, what are the norms for women and men, the causes of elevated lactate dehydrogenase levels and ways to reduce it.

What is lactate dehydrogenase?

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme present in various tissues and organs of our body, including muscles, heart, liver, kidneys and red blood cells. Its main function is to convert lactic acid into pyruvate, which is an important element of the energy production process in cells.

Types of ldh in the body

There are five LDH isoenzymes in the body, which differ in their composition and location. Each of these isoenzymes has a specific role in different tissues and organs. Therefore, testing the LDH level can help locate the source of the problem in the event of an elevated result.

When should an ldh test be performed?

LDH testing may be recommended in many situations. It is most often performed to diagnose and monitor various diseases, such as heart disease, liver damage, cancer, and muscle damage. It is also useful in assessing the risk of complications after surgery and in cases of suspected metabolic disorders.

How to prepare for testing the ldh level in the blood?

Preparing for an LDH test is usually quite simple. There is no need for a special diet or fasting before the test. Nevertheless, it is worth avoiding excessive physical exercise on the day before the test, because intense exercise may affect the result.

Ldh – norms for women and men

LDH standards may vary slightly depending on the laboratory that performs the test. In general, however, reference values range from 140 to 280 units per liter (U/L) in healthy adults. These values may be slightly higher in children and older people. For women and men, the standards are usually the same.

Causes of too high lactate dehydrogenase levels

Elevated LDH levels can be the result of various factors. The most common causes are tissue damage such as injuries, inflammation, heart disease, liver disease, cancer, and postoperative reactions. In addition, chronic stress, intense physical exercise and some medications can affect LDH levels.

How to reduce elevated ldh?

Reducing elevated LDH depends on the cause. In the case of underlying diseases, it is necessary to treat their causative factors. In the case of tissue damage, the healing process can help lower LDH levels. It is also important to avoid risk factors such as intense physical exercise and excessive stress.

Your suggestions

If you suspect that you have elevated LDH levels or are concerned about test results, it is always worth consulting your doctor. Professional evaluation and diagnosis are crucial to the effective management of elevated lactate dehydrogenase levels.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about lactate dehydrogenase and its role in the body, we recommend reading scientific articles and educational materials available on medical websites and research institutes. You can also consult your doctor for more detailed information on this subject.

To summarize, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) plays an important role in the body’s metabolism, but elevated levels may be an indicator of various diseases. Therefore, it is worth monitoring your test results and, if necessary, consulting a doctor for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.