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Autoimmune and inflammatory disease testing.
The Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test is a blood screening designed to measure the levels of the LDH enzyme, which is present in many body tissues including the heart, liver, kidneys, muscles, and blood cells. Elevated LDH levels can indicate tissue damage or disease, as the enzyme is released into the bloodstream when cells are injured or dying. This test is commonly used to help diagnose or monitor conditions such as heart attacks, liver disorders, hemolytic anemia, or certain cancers. While LDH is not specific to one organ, it provides valuable insights when combined with other tests, and early detection of abnormalities can guide further investigations or treatments to prevent complications.
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
Venous blood sample drawn
No fasting required, but avoid strenuous exercise before the test as it may temporarily elevate levels
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This LDH blood test measures lactate dehydrogenase, an enzyme found in almost every tissue in the body. Because it comes from so many places, LDH is a general marker: it is usually requested as part of a wider assessment rather than on its own.
| What is measured | Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) — 1 marker |
|---|---|
| Sample | Blood |
| Preparation | No fasting is usually needed. Avoid unusually hard exercise the day before, as it can raise LDH. |
| Price and collection | Shown in the booking options above, before you pay |
| Referral | Book online |
Most people booking a private LDH blood test have been asked for it by a doctor, or are repeating a test they have had before. If you are not sure whether LDH is right for you, ask your GP or contact Swift before booking. You can browse other tests on the services page.
Lactate dehydrogenase is an enzyme that helps cells turn sugar into energy. It is found in the heart, liver, muscles, kidneys, lungs and red blood cells. When cells are damaged, LDH leaks into the blood.
No. LDH can be raised in some cancers, but it is raised in many other conditions too. It cannot diagnose or rule out cancer.
Common causes include muscle strain or injury, recent hard exercise, liver problems, infections, anaemia caused by red cells breaking down, and sometimes heart or lung conditions. Your clinician will look at your other results to narrow it down.
Yes. If red blood cells break during the blood draw or in transit (called haemolysis), LDH can read falsely high. If a result does not fit your symptoms, a repeat test is often the first step.
Yes. Strenuous exercise can raise LDH for a day or more. If you train hard, tell your clinician and avoid heavy exercise just before the test.
A low result is uncommon and usually not a concern on its own.
Fasting is not usually needed for an LDH test. Follow any instructions you are given when you book.
LDH comes in five forms that are more common in different tissues. A separate isoenzyme test can sometimes help show where raised LDH is coming from. This test measures total LDH only.
Because LDH is so general, it is most useful alongside other results, such as a full blood count, liver tests or muscle markers, which help explain why it is raised.
Share it with your GP or the clinician who requested the test. They may repeat it or arrange further tests depending on your symptoms.
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