What causes high hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase levels?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, elevated hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (HBDH) levels may be associated with pregnancy, intense physical exercise, hepatitis, hemolytic anemia, myocardial infarction, and other factors. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatments such as general supportive measures or medication under the guidance of a physician. In daily life, it is important to develop healthy habits, consume more fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats, and avoid strenuous physical activity.
Under normal circumstances, hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase refers to α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, which is mainly present in tissue cells of the myocardium, liver, pancreas, and other organs. Elevated levels of α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase may be associated with pregnancy, intense physical exercise, hepatitis, hemolytic anemia, myocardial infarction, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatments—such as general supportive measures or medication—under a doctor’s guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone in women may lead to elevated release of α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, undergo regular prenatal checkups, and monitor liver function and cardiac health.
2. Intense Physical Exercise
During strenuous exercise, muscle fibers may sustain minor damage due to high-intensity physical stress, leading to the release of α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase into the bloodstream and resulting in elevated enzyme levels. Adequate rest, sufficient hydration, electrolyte replenishment, and gentle stretching are advised to promote muscle recovery.
3. Hepatitis
Viral infections such as hepatitis A, B, or C may trigger hepatitis. Damage to liver cells can alter cell membrane permeability, causing increased release of intracellular α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, accompanied by symptoms like jaundice, abdominal distension, and loss of appetite. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as polyene phosphatidylcholine injection, entecavir dispersible tablets, and compound glycyrrhizin tablets.
4. Hemolytic Anemia
Hemolytic anemia may result from genetic defects. The patient's immune system may attack its own red blood cells, potentially increasing α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase levels and causing symptoms such as dizziness and splenomegaly. Under medical supervision, medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, folic acid tablets, and dexamethasone tablets may be used for treatment.
5. Myocardial Infarction
Poor lifestyle habits such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and smoking may trigger myocardial infarction. Dying myocardial cells release large amounts of cardiac enzymes into the blood, leading to elevated α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase levels, along with symptoms including chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and sweating. Under medical guidance, medications such as Tongxinluo capsules, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, and clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets may be used to improve myocardial blood supply.
In daily life, it is important to develop healthy living habits, consume more fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats, and avoid strenuous exercise.
