Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH)

CPT Test code: 83615

Specimen:

Serum (preferred) or plasma

Volume:

1 mL

Minimum Volume:

0.5 mL

Container:

Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (heparin) tube; do not use EDTA plasma.

Collection:

Separate serum or plasma from cells within 45 minutes of collection.

Storage Instructions:

Maintain specimen at room temperature.¹

Causes for Rejection:

Excessive hemolysis; improper labeling; EDTA plasma specimen

Reference Interval:

Age	Total*
*LabCorp internal studies.
0-3 d	Not established
4-20 d	0-600 IU/L
21 d to 2 y	Not established
2-15 y	0-300 IU/L
Male: >15 y	0-225 IU/L
Female: >15 y	0-214 IU/L

Use:

Elevated serum levels of LDH have been observed in a variety of disease states. The highest levels are seen in patients with megaloblastic anemia, disseminated carcinoma, and shock. Moderate increases occur in muscular disorders, nephritic syndrome, and cirrhosis. Mild increases in LDH activity have been reported in cases of myocardial or pulmonary infarction, leukemia, hemolytic anemia, and nonviral hepatitis.²

Limitations:

Hemolysis elevates LDH results, oxalate inhibits LDH, and ascorbic acid can decrease LDH values.

Footnotes:

1. LabCorp internal studies.

2. Tietz NW, Clinical Guide to Laboratory Tests, 4th ed, Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Co, 2006.PubMed 6712030