LDH

The LDH test has the full name of lactate Dehydrogenase test, is a blood test to determine tissue damage in the body. LDH is basically an enzyme which is available in all body cells like lungs, kidneys, heart, liver and blood cells. If any of these tissues are damaged, LDH is excreted in the blood. It is a simple, quick, affordable and effective test which gives accurate results. That is why doctors often recommend this test to patients having heart issues, liver disease, anemia and certain cancers. It is not a specific test, but it can play a vital role when combined with other tests and investigations.

What is the LDH Test?

The LDH test determines the content in the bloodstream of lactate dehydrogenase enzymes. This enzyme aids the body in producing energy by transforming lactate to pyruvate during cellular metabolism. Usually LDH exists in five forms and each form is related to a particular organ. Rise in total LDH can help in identifying which part of the body may be affected.

Why to go for the LDH Test?

The LDH test is prescribed for several clinical reasons. It is not usually used alone but helps doctors understand the severity and progression of disease.

Main purposes include:

• Detecting tissue damage
• Detecting organ damage
• Screening body disorders of liver, heart, lung, or muscle
• Evaluating anemia
• Diagnosis of infections
• Diagnosis of inflammatory conditions
• Screening for cancer treatment
• Analysing tissue injury after trauma

When is the LDH Test advised?

If a person is experiencing symptoms which are as follows he/she should do an LDH test.

• fatigue
• weakness
• Muscle pain or injury
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Sudden weight loss
• Fever or chronic infection

What is the procedure for doing the LDH Test?

Before the Test

• No fasting is usually needed
• Tell the doctor about which medicines or supplements you are taking or recent injuries
• Don’t do exercise when you go for the test, as it causes an increase in LDH levels

During the Test

• A medical technician clears the skin of the arm.
• A needle prick is used to draw a tiny blood sample.
• The blood is collected in a designated flask and sent to the laboratory.
• Test results are collected after 24 hours depending on the laboratory.

After the Test

• Normal activities can be resumed immediately.
• Reports are usually available within 24 hours in the laboratory.

What is the normal range of LDH tests?

How to interpret LDH Levels?

High LDH Levels

Elevated LDH levels usually indicate cell damage or disease somewhere in the body.

Low LDH Levels

Low LDH levels are rare and usually not clinically significant. They may occasionally be seen due to:

• Excess vitamin C intake
• Genetic enzyme deficiencies

LDH Isoenzymes and Their Significance

Which LDH test centre is near me?

The LDH test centre near me is City Imaging and Clinical Labs, which gives quality tests at affordable rates and provides special discounts. This testing centre for VDRL test is accredited from Government institutions like NABL and NABH and centres have a vast expertise in the diagnostic field with highly experienced doctors.

What are the merits of doing an LDH Test?

• Simple and quick blood test
• Detect early tissue damage
• Screening for chronic diseases
• Helps in analysing treatment effectiveness
• Cost-effective and available in every lab centre

What are the drawbacks of the LDH Test?

• Non-specific
• LDH Levels may rise because of exercise or minor injuries
• Combined with clinical symptoms and other tests
• Cannot identify the exact cause

What are the factors that can affect LDH Levels?

• Recent surgery
• Trauma
• strenuous physical activity
• Certain drugs
• Haemolysis

What is the LDH test price in Delhi?

The LDH test can be done in Delhi, ranging from INR 300-500 and can fluctuate in different locations of the country and also depending on the diagnostic centre available, whether private or a government diagnostic centre.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is fasting needed before doing the LDH test?

No, fasting is needed before going for the LDH test.

Is the LDH test painful?

No, this test is not painful.

Can stress increase LDH levels?

Yes, slight change occurs in LDH levels due to stress.

Is high LDH always serious?

No, sometimes high LDH is due to physical exercise.

How often should LDH be tested?

Its frequency depends on patients' health and doctor advice.