Other testsReported in U/LLactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
An enzyme found in almost every tissue. A rise means cells were damaged. It does not, by itself, say which cells.
What it measures
LDH helps cells handle the last steps of glucose breakdown. Liver, muscle, red cells, heart, and lung all contain it. Any of them can leak LDH into the blood when they are injured. Hemolysis in the collection tube — red cells breaking as the sample is drawn — is a classic false rise. The adult interval on this panel is broad, about 105–333 U/L, because a little LDH is always circulating.
Why it is on the panel
LDH is a general injury marker that ties the rest of the panel together. A high LDH with a falling hemoglobin and a rising bilirubin suggests red cells are breaking down. A high LDH with a high AST and a high creatine kinase suggests muscle. A high LDH with a high ALT suggests liver. Alone, it only says “something leaked.”
How to read it
Never read LDH by itself. Line it up with ALT, AST, creatine kinase, hemoglobin, and bilirubin. If those are typical and LDH is mildly high, sample hemolysis is a real possibility and a repeat draw settles it. A very high LDH with a systemic illness is a clinician’s problem to sort, not a home interpretation.
When it runs higher
Hemolysis, muscle injury, liver injury, lung injury, some infections, and some cancers raise LDH. A hard workout can nudge it. The companions on the panel usually reveal the source. When they do not, the result is worth repeating before anyone builds a theory on it.
When it runs lower
A low LDH is uncommon and rarely important. It can be seen with a large vitamin C intake interfering with some assays, or with very low cell turnover. It is not a target to aim for.
Same group
Other Other tests
How to use this page
This page explains what the measurement is for. It is educational. Your Healiam report includes the reference interval for your age and sex, and a clinician reads that result with your history, medicines, and the rest of the panel. Talk with a clinician before changing diet, supplements, or treatment because of a number on a report.
LDH
LDH is part of the full panel.
No referral or insurance required.
One preventive draw covers this measurement and the rest of the Healiam panel. CLIA-certified results come back in days.