Tissue Damage Enzyme (LDH) Test - Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found in almost all cells of the body, particularly in the heart, liver, muscles, kidneys, lungs, and blood cells. When a cell is damaged or injured, LDH is released into the bloodstream. Therefore, an elevated serum LDH level is a nonspecific indicator of tissue damage or cell death. The enzyme consists of several isoenzymes (LDH-1 to LDH-5), each with a different tissue distribution. Measuring total LDH suggests a problem, while measuring the isoenzymes may help pinpoint the location of the damage.