: Lactate Dehydrogenase, Serum or Plasma, Qualitative
: This test checks for the presence of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), an enzyme found in many tissues, in a blood sample. A qualitative result indicates whether LDH is detected rather than giving an exact amount.
[": A qualitative LDH blood test shows whether this enzyme is present, which can help your care team recognize tissue damage or other conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 68453-0
- Short code
- LDH Snv L to P-cCnc
- Synonyms
- LDH Snv L to P-cCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 140
- Ref high
- 280
- Critical range
- — – 1000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- reaction-lactate-to-pyruvate
- CPT
- 83615
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What Is Lactate Dehydrogenase?
: Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found in almost all of the body's cells, including the liver, heart, muscles, red blood cells, and lungs. When cells are damaged or destroyed, LDH can leak into the bloodstream.
: Why This Test Is Done
: A qualitative LDH test is used to detect whether LDH is present in a blood sample. It may be part of a general health review or used to help evaluate tissue damage, certain blood disorders, or other conditions your healthcare provider is assessing.
: How the Test Is Performed
: A healthcare professional draws a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm into a collection tube. The sample is then sent to the laboratory, where it is tested for LDH using a qualitative screening method.
: What the Results Mean
: A qualitative result is typically reported as detected or not detected rather than as a precise number. Your provider will interpret this result alongside your symptoms, medical history, and other tests; a single result does not diagnose a specific condition.
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.
: LDH is a nonspecific marker, meaning it can rise with many different conditions, from temporary tissue injury to anemia or liver and heart problems. Because this is a qualitative test, it shows presence rather than amount, so your healthcare provider will combine it with other findings to determine what further evaluation, if any, is needed.
Short name
: LDH
Frequently asked questions
: Does this test hurt?
: Do I need to fast before this test?
: Can a detected LDH result mean I have a serious illness?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy