How to treat elevated hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase?

Hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase refers to serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase. The normal range for serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase is 90–180 U/L. Treatment for elevated levels depends on the specific underlying cause, which may include trauma, hyperthyroidism, myocarditis, diabetes, or hemolytic anemia.

1. Trauma

Trauma may cause cellular and tissue damage or inflammation, leading to leakage of serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase into the bloodstream and resulting in elevated concentrations. It is recommended to rest adequately and apply ice packs to the affected area as directed by a physician to reduce pain and swelling. Once the injured area heals, the enzyme levels will gradually return to normal.

2. Hyperthyroidism

This condition involves excessive secretion and release of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream, which may cause some degree of cellular damage, leading to the release of serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase and elevated test values. Symptoms may include excessive sweating and palpitations. It is recommended to take medications such as propranolol hydrochloride tablets, methimazole tablets, or propylthiouracil under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism.

3. Myocarditis

Myocardial inflammation caused by drug toxicity or infections can damage heart muscle cells, increasing intracellular levels of serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase. This may lead to symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, and rapid heartbeat. It is recommended to take antiviral medications such as ganciclovir capsules, oseltamivir phosphate granules, or ribavirin granules under a doctor's guidance to combat viral infection and relieve symptoms.

4. Diabetes

Insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance can lead to high blood glucose levels, impairing cellular oxygen uptake and causing tissue hypoxia. Under hypoxic conditions, cells may undergo stress responses, releasing serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase into the bloodstream and elevating test results. Patients may experience symptoms such as increased thirst and frequent urination. It is recommended to take antidiabetic medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, acarbose tablets, or voglibose tablets under medical supervision to help control blood sugar and alleviate symptoms.

5. Hemolytic Anemia

In patients with hemolytic anemia, red blood cell membranes may be attacked and damaged. When red blood cells rupture, they release serum α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase into the blood, increasing its concentration and leading to symptoms such as anemia, fever, and jaundice. It is recommended to use corticosteroids such as betamethasone tablets, hydrocortisone acetate tablets, or dexamethasone acetate tablets under medical supervision to help improve symptoms.

Patients are advised to seek medical attention at a hospital for systematic evaluation to determine the exact cause of elevated levels and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor’s guidance to prevent worsening of symptoms.