: Lactate Dehydrogenase 2, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Electrophoresis
: This test measures and separates the different forms of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) present in a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
[": It helps characterize the LDH isoenzyme pattern in cerebrospinal fluid, which can be useful in evaluating certain neurological or inflammatory conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51512-2
- Short code
- LDH2 CFr Plr Elph
- Synonyms
- LDH2 CFr Plr Elph
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 140
- Ref high
- 280
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 83615
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What This Test Measures
: Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found in many tissues, and it exists in several slightly different forms called isoenzymes. This test measures LDH activity in cerebrospinal fluid and uses electrophoresis to separate and identify the individual isoenzyme fractions.
: Why Cerebrospinal Fluid
: Cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). Testing this fluid can give information about processes affecting the central nervous system that blood tests may not show. The isoenzyme pattern can help indicate the types of cells or tissues contributing to LDH in the fluid.
: How Electrophoresis Works
: Electrophoresis separates molecules based on their electrical charge and size as they move through a gel. The separated LDH fractions appear as distinct bands, and the relative amounts of each fraction can be described.
: What to Expect
: The test is performed on a cerebrospinal fluid sample obtained by a clinician, usually as part of a broader evaluation. Your care team will explain any preparation needed and what the results mean in the context of your other tests and symptoms.
Reference range
Adult: 140-280 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Measuring LDH isoenzymes in cerebrospinal fluid may support the evaluation of conditions involving tissue damage or inflammation in the central nervous system. Results are interpreted alongside the total LDH level, cell counts, protein levels, and clinical findings; they are not diagnostic on their own.
Short name
: LDH-2 CSF Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
: Does this test require a spinal tap?
: Can I eat or drink before this test?
: What do the LDH isoenzyme fractions mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy