Joint Leukocyte Lactate Dehydrogenase Activity (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), an enzyme found in many tissues, including joints. Elevated levels in joint fluid may suggest inflammation, tissue damage, or other underlying conditions.
["LDH in joint fluid can help diagnose or monitor joint-related inflammation or injury."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36093-3
- Short code
- MR LE joint Ltd
- Synonyms
- MR LE joint Ltd
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- 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
What Is LDH in Joint Fluid Used For?
LDH in joint fluid is often used to assess conditions like joint inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, or to evaluate joint damage from trauma or infections. It may also help determine if fluid removal (like an arthrocentesis) is needed for further testing or treatment.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small amount of fluid is collected from your joint through a needle. The fluid is then sent to a lab for testing. LDH activity is measured using a specialized lab method to detect enzyme levels in the sample.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have persistent joint pain, swelling, or redness that doesn’t improve with standard treatments. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like crystal-induced arthritis or infections.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test findings. Elevated LDH levels in joint fluid may indicate inflammation or tissue damage, but they don’t always point to a specific condition without additional context.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Elevated LDH in joint fluid is often associated with inflammatory processes, such as synovitis (joint inflammation), but it can also be influenced by other factors like recent joint trauma or infection. This test helps guide decisions about further diagnostic steps or treatment adjustments.
Short name
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) in Joint Fluid
Frequently asked questions
Why would my doctor order this test?
What are the possible risks or side effects of this test?
How soon will I get my results?
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