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Lactate Dehydrogenase (LD) - Broad Marker for Tissue Damage

Lactate dehydrogenase (LD) is an enzyme present in nearly all cells of the body. It plays a role in converting lactate to pyruvate during energy production, especially under low-oxygen conditions. When cells are damaged or destroyed, LD leaks into the bloodstream, making it a broad but sensitive marker for tissue injury in organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, muscles, and blood.

Why Test Lactate Dehydrogenase?

This test helps detect or monitor tissue damage in organs including the heart, liver, kidneys, and muscles. It is often used as an early warning sign when cell damage is suspected, although it cannot pinpoint the exact organ or cause on its own. It may be ordered alongside other tests to narrow down the source of injury.

What Do High Lactate Dehydrogenase Levels Mean?

Elevated LD levels may indicate a heart attack, liver disease (e.g. hepatitis or cirrhosis), muscle injury, haemolytic anaemia, infections, kidney disease, or cancer. Intense physical activity can also temporarily raise LD due to minor muscle damage, so context and timing are important when interpreting results. Reference range is typically 1.8-3.4 ukat/L in adults.

What Do Low Lactate Dehydrogenase Levels Mean?

Low LD levels are rare and usually not clinically relevant. They can occasionally occur in advanced liver failure or rare genetic enzyme deficiencies. A normal or low LD generally suggests no active tissue damage.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Unexplained fatigue or weakness
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
  • Dark urine
  • Chest pain
  • Muscle pain or swelling

Who Should Get Tested?

  • People with suspected tissue damage in the heart, liver, or kidneys
  • Patients being monitored for cancer treatment response
  • Individuals with unexplained fatigue or jaundice
  • Those with haemolytic anaemia or suspected blood disorders

How to Prepare for Your Test

No special preparation is needed. Avoid intense exercise before the test as it may temporarily raise LD levels. Bring valid ID to the sampling clinic.

Order Your Blood Test

Test your Lactate Dehydrogenase levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.

LD Test (Lactate Dehydrogenase) →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can exercise affect LD results?
Yes. Intense physical activity can temporarily elevate LD levels due to minor muscle cell damage. It is best to avoid strenuous exercise in the 24 hours before the test.
Why can't LD pinpoint where the damage is?
LD is found in nearly all cells, so an elevated level shows that tissue damage has occurred but not which organ is affected. Additional tests are needed to identify the source.
What is the normal reference range for LD?
In adults, the typical reference range is 1.8-3.4 ukat/L, though ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.
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Wellth

Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.