Overview: Lactate Dehydrogenase TestIntroduction: The Lactate Dehydrogenase Test measures LDH in serum to diagnose tissue damage or cancer, causing fatigue or pain. Aligned with 2023 ASCP guidelines, it uses biochemical methods for high specificity, supporting cancer screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment planning, and improving outcomes in biochemistry for patients with suspected malignancies or tissue damage.
Other Names: LDH Serum Assay, Tissue Damage Test.
FDA Status: Laboratory-developed test (LDT), meeting biochemistry standards for diagnostic accuracy.
Historical Milestone: LDH serum testing began in the 1960s with cancer research. Biochemical methods improved in the 2000s, enhancing diagnostic precision.
Purpose: Measures LDH in serum to diagnose tissue damage or cancer, guides treatment, and evaluates patients with fatigue or pain.
Test Parameters: 1. Lactate Dehydrogenase
Pretest Condition: No fasting required. Collect serum or plasma. Report history of fatigue, pain, or cancer symptoms.
Specimen: Serum (SST, 2-5 mL), Plasma (EDTA, 2-4 mL). Transport in a biohazard container.
Sample Stability at Room Temperature: 8 hours
Sample Stability at Refrigeration: 7 days
Sample Stability at Frozen: 6 months
Medical History: Document fatigue, pain, weight loss, or family history of cancer. Include current medications, especially chemotherapy.
Consent: Written consent required, detailing the tests purpose, cancer or tissue damage implications, and risks of blood collection.
Procedural Considerations: Uses biochemical methods to measure LDH in serum or plasma. Results are available in 1-2 days, supporting rapid clinical decisions. Performed in laboratories, often for cancer or tissue damage diagnosis.
Factors Affecting Result Accuracy: Hemolysis, lipemia, or improper sample storage can affect results. Insufficient sample volume may reduce accuracy.
Clinical Significance: Elevated LDH suggests tissue damage or malignancies (e.g., lymphoma), guiding further evaluation or treatment. Normal levels may require additional testing.
Specialist Consultation: Consult an oncologist or primary care physician for result interpretation and treatment planning.
Additional Supporting Tests: Tumor markers (e.g., CEA), imaging (e.g., PET-CT), or tissue biopsy to confirm cancer diagnosis.
Test Limitations: Not specific to one condition; other causes of tissue damage may elevate LDH. Clinical correlation is needed.
References: ASCP Biochemistry Guidelines, 2023; American Journal of Clinical Pathology, Drachman D, 2022.
