Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found throughout the body that plays a key role in energy production. It helps convert sugar into energy, especially during exercise or when oxygen levels are low. LDH exists in different forms in many tissues, including the heart, liver, muscles, and blood. Doctors often measure LDH levels in the blood as it can indicate tissue damage or disease, such as heart attacks, liver conditions, or certain cancers. Elevated or decreased LDH levels provide valuable clues about what might be affecting the body’s cells and tissues.