What does alpha-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase mean?
Under normal circumstances, a-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, clinically referred to as α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, is an enzyme within the cardiac enzyme panel. The detailed analysis is as follows:
α-Hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase is one of the enzymes in the cardiac enzyme spectrum and is primarily distributed in myocardial tissue, red blood cells, white blood cells, and the kidneys. Under physiological conditions, α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase is expressed in various human tissues, with the highest concentration found in myocardial tissue. When myocardium is damaged, this enzyme can be released into the bloodstream; therefore, α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase levels significantly increase during myocardial diseases. Elevated levels are commonly seen in conditions such as myocardial infarction, active rheumatic heart disease, and acute viral myocarditis. Decreased levels may occur following the use of immunosuppressants or chemotherapeutic agents for tumors.
As a diagnostic marker, α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase lacks specificity. It should be evaluated in conjunction with other auxiliary tests—such as complete blood count, liver function tests, ultrasound, and X-ray—to comprehensively determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
If a patient's α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase level is abnormal, prompt medical consultation is recommended. A physician should make the diagnosis and initiate timely, targeted treatment based on the individual case.