What does it mean if lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is elevated in biochemical tests, and what should be done?

Elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in biochemical tests may be associated with factors such as muscle injury, progressive muscular dystrophy, and myocarditis. Treatment options include daily care and oral medications. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Muscle Injury

After intense physical exercise, muscle tissue may become damaged, leading to the release of lactate dehydrogenase from muscles into the bloodstream, resulting in elevated LDH levels. Symptoms can be alleviated through adequate rest, local cold compresses, and other measures.

2. Progressive Muscular Dystrophy

The exact cause of progressive muscular dystrophy remains unclear, but it may be related to genetic factors or gene mutations. Clinically, it presents with muscle pain and motor dysfunction, which may lead to inflammation and necrosis of muscle tissue, thereby increasing LDH levels. Treatment may include medications such as adenosine disodium triphosphate tablets or galantamine hydrobromide tablets, used under medical supervision.

3. Myocarditis

Myocarditis is a disease characterized by inflammatory involvement of the myocardial tissue, leading to impaired heart function. During the pathological process of myocarditis, myocardial cells are damaged by inflammatory mediators and release intracellular enzymes, including LDH, causing elevated levels. Symptoms often include chest pain, palpitations, and fatigue. Medications such as levamlodipine maleate tablets or acetaminophen tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.

In addition to the above relatively common causes, elevated LDH levels may also be associated with hepatitis, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, and acute myocardial infarction. It is important to seek timely medical evaluation and follow appropriate treatment as directed by a healthcare professional.