LDH; LACTATE DEHYDROGENASE (NHC)

The LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) test is a blood test that measures the level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), an enzyme found in almost all cells of the body. The highest concentrations of LDH are present in the liver, heart, muscles, kidneys, lungs, and red blood cells. When these tissues are damaged or diseased, LDH is released into the bloodstream, causing its level to rise. Measuring LDH helps healthcare providers evaluate tissue injury and monitor a variety of medical conditions affecting these organs.

The LDH test is commonly used to investigate liver disease, heart disorders, muscle injury, kidney disease, lung conditions, hemolytic anemia, and other disorders associated with tissue damage. It is also useful for monitoring changes in tumor burden after chemotherapy in certain cancers. However, because LDH levels can increase in many different conditions and are not specific to cancer, the test should not be used as a standalone diagnostic test for cancer. LDH results should always be interpreted alongside the patient’s symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and other laboratory and imaging findings to support accurate diagnosis and treatment monitoring.