Call 8872524007 if you'd like to check your slip before coming in.
What the LDH test checks
The test reports total LDH activity in units per litre (U/L). There are five forms of the enzyme, LDH-1 to LDH-5, and each tissue has its own mix. Routine reports give the total only; separating the forms is a specialised test that doctors rarely need now.
Because so many tissues contain it, a raised LDH tells your doctor that something is causing cell damage. Other tests point to where.
Why your doctor may order it
LDH used to be a heart attack marker, but troponin has taken that role. Today doctors mostly use it to:
- look for haemolysis, where red blood cells break down faster than normal;
- support a diagnosis of megaloblastic anaemia, often due to low B12, where LDH can be very high;
- assess liver or lung conditions together with other tests;
- monitor some blood cancers such as lymphoma, and some solid tumours, during and after treatment;
- check fluid drawn from the chest or abdomen, compared with blood LDH.
How to prepare
No fasting is needed. Avoid heavy exercise for a day or two beforehand, since working muscles release LDH.
Sample type and report time
One serum sample from the arm. This test is very sensitive to how the blood is drawn: if red cells burst in the tube (haemolysis), they release LDH and the result reads falsely high. Our team takes care with the draw, and occasionally a repeat sample is requested for this reason.
Samples given by about 11 am are usually reported the same day. Home collection is possible through our home sample collection service; book it on 8872524007.
Understanding your results
Adult ranges vary widely with the method. Some labs quote roughly 140 to 280 U/L, others use different figures entirely. The range printed on your report is the one that applies.
High LDH can be associated with haemolysis, B12 or folate deficiency, liver disease, muscle injury, lung infections, kidney disease, some cancers and severe infections. It also rises in late pregnancy. Low LDH is uncommon and rarely significant. Your doctor reads it with your CBC, liver tests and symptoms, never on its own.
FAQ
What is LDH in a blood test?
It's an enzyme present inside most cells. A raised blood level shows that some cells are being damaged, and your doctor uses other tests to find which tissue.
Is a high LDH a sign of cancer?
Not by itself. Many common, non-cancer causes raise LDH. It is used to monitor some cancers once diagnosed, not to detect them.
Can I get an ldh test near me without fasting?
Yes. If you're looking for an ldh test near me in Banur, walk into our M.C. Road lab any time during hours; no fasting is needed.
Why was my LDH sample repeated?
Usually because the first sample showed haemolysis, which falsely raises LDH. A fresh, careful draw gives a true result.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
Book your ldh test on 8872524007 or WhatsApp us. Lab address and timings are on the contact page.