Lactate dehydrogenase

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) has a wide distribution in animal tissues and elevations suggests tissue damage. In some species elevations over 1000 iu/l is considered significant but in general is a poor indicator.

This enzyme is present in high concentrations in a wide range of organs and tissues including red blood cells. It is found in the cell cytoplasm and is released into the blood during changes in cell membrane permeability or necrosis. Five isoenzymes are recognised including heart, liver and muscle.

Small animals

Causes of increased LDH activity

• Hepatocellular damage especially necrosis
• Skeletal muscle disorders
• Cardiac muscle disorders

Complementary tests

Increases in LDH activity are not organ specific. Isoenzyme analysis is not performed in small animals. This is not included in profiles for small animals.

Equine

Causes of increased LDH activity

• Hepatocellular damage, hepatitis
• Muscle damage
• Renal disease - in some cases
• Haemolysis

Rare causes of increased LDH activity

• Cardiac muscle disorders including myocardial infection
• Pancreatitis
• Intramuscular injection

Complementary tests

Isoenzyme analysis by electrophoresis may be indicated when total LDH activity is elevated in order to determine the affected organ. However, there are usually other enzymes that are more organ specific that can be assayed, making this enzyme of questionable use.

Authors & References

NationWide Laboratories