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Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Activity in Serum: Time to Maximum Velocity During a Stress Test

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how quickly your body produces lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), an enzyme involved in energy production, when exposed to physical stress. It helps assess how well your heart and blood vessels respond to exertion.

Quick summary

["Evaluates heart and blood flow response to stress during testing."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80038-3
Short code
LV.basal inf Time to S Vmax TDI
Synonyms
LV.basal inf Time to S Vmax TDI
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-tissue-doppler
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions affecting how your heart uses oxygen during exercise, such as coronary artery disease or other heart-related issues. It can also help monitor heart function before or after treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have an electrocardiogram (ECG) and possibly a stress test (like a treadmill or exercise bike) to measure your heart’s response. Blood will be drawn at rest and during peak exertion to track LDH levels over time.

How the Test Works

During stress, your muscles and heart work harder, increasing LDH production. The test measures how fast this enzyme rises in your bloodstream, helping identify how efficiently your heart supplies oxygen.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test may be used to diagnose or monitor coronary artery disease, heart failure, or other conditions affecting blood flow or heart muscle function. It can also help guide decisions about exercise or medical treatments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: LDH Max Rate Tests Provide Insights Into Cardiac Efficiency and Stress Response

Short name

LDH Max Rate Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does the stress test take?
The full test process—including preparation, stress phase, and blood draws—typically lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. Recovery time varies but is usually short.
Is fasting required for this test?
No fasting is needed unless your doctor specifies otherwise. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
What are the risks of this test?
Minimal risks include mild discomfort from blood draws or stress test exertion. Rarely, there may be temporary heart rhythm changes or lightheadedness during the stress phase.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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