lactate dehydrogenase
Also written as: LDH
Enzyme marker elevated in many hematologic malignancies, indicating cell turnover or tumor burden. Important prognostic indicator.
Full Definition
Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an intracellular enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of lactate to pyruvate and is released into the bloodstream when cells are damaged or destroyed. In hematologic oncology, elevated LDH levels serve as a non-specific but important biomarker of increased cell turnover, tissue damage, or tumor burden. High LDH is commonly seen in aggressive lymphomas, acute leukemias, and hemolytic conditions, and often correlates with disease extent and prognosis. LDH is incorporated into several prognostic scoring systems, including the International Prognostic Index for lymphomas, making it a crucial laboratory parameter in cancer staging and monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as LDH. Include units when reporting values (U/L or IU/L).
In Context
- "The patient's LDH was markedly elevated at 850 U/L, suggesting high tumor burden." — Laboratory report
- "Serial lactate dehydrogenase levels can help monitor treatment response." — Monitoring protocol