Lactate Dehydrogenase Isoenzyme 1

Overview

LDH-1 is like a special helper in your body, mainly found in your heart muscle and red blood cells. Think of LDH-1 as an assistant that helps turn sugar into energy, especially when there's not enough oxygen available - such as during intense exercise or when tissues are damaged.

LDH-1 is one of five types of lactate dehydrogenase enzymes, each found in different parts of the body. By measuring LDH-1 levels, doctors can gain insights into how well your heart and red blood cells are functioning. If these cells are damaged, LDH-1 can leak into the bloodstream, causing levels to rise.

While newer tests have become more common for detecting heart issues, LDH-1 still plays a role in understanding certain health conditions, acting like a messenger alerting us to possible problems with the heart or blood.

Testing Levels:

• High (250 U/L) - If LDH-1 levels are higher than normal, it may indicate that there's damage to your heart or red blood cells. This could be due to a heart attack, where heart muscle cells are injured, releasing LDH-1 into your blood. It might also suggest conditions like haemolytic anaemia, where red blood cells break down faster than they are made. High LDH-1 levels can also be associated with certain cancers or other illnesses causing tissue damage. It's like an alarm bell, signalling that further investigation is needed to find out what's happening.
  
  
• Mid - LDH-1 levels within the normal range indicate that there's likely no significant damage to your heart muscle or red blood cells. It suggests that these parts of your body are functioning well, and there's no immediate cause for concern regarding tissue damage in these areas.
  
  When LDH-1 levels are nearing the upper limit of normal, it might suggest mild or early tissue damage. This could be the beginning of a condition affecting your heart or blood cells. It's a gentle reminder to monitor your health and possibly undergo additional tests to ensure everything is alright.
  
  Results near the lower limit are typically not worrisome. It means that LDH-1 levels are low, which is generally normal and indicates that there's no excessive breakdown of tissues in your heart or blood cells.
  
  
• Low (120 U/L) - Low LDH-1 levels are uncommon and usually not a cause for concern. It might occur due to an inherited condition, but generally, low levels do not indicate a problem and are considered normal.

Why We Test Lactate Dehydrogenase Isoenzyme 1

Testing LDH-1 levels can provide valuable information about the health of your heart and red blood cells. If you're experiencing symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, or unexplained anaemia, measuring LDH-1 can help identify if there's tissue damage or disease. It assists doctors in diagnosing conditions like heart attacks, haemolytic anaemia, and certain types of cancers. Early detection through LDH-1 testing can lead to timely treatment and better health outcomes.

What Affects It

Various factors can influence LDH-1 levels. Damage to the heart muscle, such as from a heart attack, can cause LDH-1 levels to increase. Conditions that lead to the breakdown of red blood cells, like certain types of anaemia, can also raise LDH-1 levels. Physical stress, intense exercise, or any situation causing tissue damage might affect LDH-1. Additionally, some medications and alcohol use can alter LDH-1 readings.

How to Improve

If LDH-1 levels are high or approaching high, it's important to address the underlying cause. This might involve treating heart conditions, managing anaemia, or addressing any tissue damage. Following a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol can support heart and blood health. If levels are low or near the low end, usually no action is needed, as low LDH-1 levels are not typically problematic. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor and maintain healthy LDH-1 levels.

Common Name: LDH-1