Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)

Code:
LD

Sample Type:

Serum (Gold Top)

Minimum volume: 1 mL

Ref Ranges/Units:

Male: 135-225 U/L 

Female: 135-214 U/L 

Turnaround:

Same Day (60 minutes from receipt for Urgent Samples).

Stability:

7 days at 15‑25°C  

Unstable at cooler temperatures: 

4 days at 2‑8°C
6 weeks at -20°C. 

Special Precautions/Comments:

Additional Information:

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a cytosolic enzyme found in all cells of the body. The highest concentrations of LDH are found in the heart, liver, muscle, kidneys and red blood cells. Cellular damage leads to release of LDH into the serum and LDH is therefore used as a general marker of tissue or cell damage. There are 5 different isoenzymes of LDH (LDH-1 to LDH-5) present in serum. 

LDH levels may be significantly in megaloblastic anaemia, disseminated carcinomas and in shock. Mild to moderate increases may be seen in muscular disorders, myocardial infarction, haemolytic anaemia, leukaemia, cirrhosis and non-viral hepatitis.  

LDH is not suitable for use in the diagnosis of cancer, but can be used for monitoring cancer treatment. 

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