Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

Skip Navigation

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a protein (enzyme) that speeds up chemical reactions in the body. It is found in red blood cells and in many organs, including the heart, liver, muscles, lungs, brain, and kidneys.

There are five different fractions of LDH (called isoenzymes): LDH-1, LDH-2, LDH-3, LDH-4, and LDH-5.

A blood test to measure LDH levels is done to check for damage to organs throughout the body. The amounts of each isoenzyme also may be measured to help determine what organ may be damaged. Some conditions that increase LDH levels include stroke, heart attack, anemia, and hepatitis.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

La Enciclopedia de salud contiene información general de salud. No todos los tratamientos o servicios descritos son beneficios cubiertos para los miembros de Kaiser Permanente ni se ofrecen como servicios de Kaiser Permanente. Para obtener una lista de beneficios cubiertos, consulte su Evidencia de cobertura o Descripción resumida del plan. Para los tratamientos recomendados, consulte con su proveedor de atención médica.