Diagnostic finding

Elevated Lactic Dehydrogenase

An increased serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration above the upper reference limit (approximately 135-280 U/L), reflecting nonspecific cellular injury, tissue breakdown, or necrosis. LDH is released from damaged cells and is therefore a sensitive but poorly specific marker of tissue injury.

Causes

  • Hemolysis

  • Rhabdomyolysis

  • Hepatobiliary disorders: Hepatitis, hepatic ischemia/infarction

  • Myocardial infarction

  • Stroke

  • Pulmonary embolism

  • Intestinal ischemia

  • Malignancy: Tumor necrosis, lymphoma, leukemia

  • Tissue inflammation: Bone fracture, major surgery, pancreatitis, sepsis

  • Infectious diseases: Infectious mononucleosis, pneumonia, meningitis

  • Physiological causes: Strenuous exercise

  • Medications and toxins: Aspirin, narcotics

Also known as: Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase, Elevated Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase, Elevated LDH, High Lactate Dehydrogenase, Increased Lactate Dehydrogenase

Referencing diagnoses

Note: Lists existing diagnoses in Diagnotize only.