Lactate dehydrogenase test
.What Is a Lactate Dehydrogenase Test?
A lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) test is a type of blood test used to measure the amount of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme in the blood. LDH is an enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates to make energy. High levels of this enzyme can indicate a wide variety of health conditions.
Why Is A Lactate Dehydrogenase Test Done?
A doctor usually requests an LDH test if they suspect an individual to have disorders or diseases of the lungs, liver, heart, or blood. A high LDH in the blood can suggest a variety of conditions such as leukemia, anemia, heart or lung failure, and inflammation of the liver. It can also indicate muscle damage as in the case of a severe burn, or as a result of physical exertion during athletic activities. Other possible causes of a high LDH test include tumors.
Types Of Lactate Dehydrogenase Tests
There are five types of milk sugar lactate dehydrogenase tests. These are:
- LDH-1: This test measures the amount of LDH-1 in the blood and is commonly used to test for heart attack.
- LDH-2: This test measures the amount of LDH-2 in the blood and is used to diagnose liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis.
- LDH-3: This test measures the amount of LDH-3 in the blood and is used to diagnose certain types of anemia.
- LDH-4: This test measures the amount of LDH-4 in the blood and is used to diagnose certain types of lung diseases.
- LDH-5: This test measures the amount of LDH-5 in the blood and is used to diagnose certain types of kidney diseases.
Preparation For Lactate Dehydrogenase Test
No special preparation is usually required for an LDH test. Because the test only involves a simple blood draw, all that is needed is for the patient to fast for eight hours prior to the test. It is important to inform the doctor or laboratory technician of any medications that the patient is currently taking.
Procedure Of Lactate Dehydrogenase Test
A lactate dehydrogenase test is performed by collecting a sample of blood from the patient’s arm using a needle and a syringe. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory technicians use specialized equipment to measure the levels of lactate dehydrogenase in the sample.
Risks Of Lactate Dehydrogenase Test
The risks associated with an LDH test are minimal. However, minor bruising and discomfort at the site of the needle insertion may occasionally occur. Other rare complications include infection, bleeding, and nerve injury.
When To Get A Lactate Dehydrogenase Test
A doctor may recommend a lactate dehydrogenase test if they suspect a person to be suffering from certain types of diseases or disorders. It is also sometimes recommended if the patient has endured trauma to the muscles or lungs, or if the patient has arthritis. In some cases, a doctor may order an LDH isoenzyme test to distinguish between diseases that affect different parts of the body.