LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) in Pleural Fluid is a diagnostic marker commonly used to assess various conditions related to the lungs and pleural space.
Pleural fluid is a liquid that lubricates the space between the lungs and the chest wall (the pleural space). When pleural fluid accumulates in excess, it is called pleural effusion, which can occur due to many conditions, including infections, lung diseases, heart failure, or malignancies. Measuring LDH levels in pleural fluid helps differentiate the type of pleural effusion and provides valuable information about the underlying cause.
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, including the heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, and muscles. It plays an essential role in converting sugar into energy for cells. High levels of LDH in the pleural fluid often indicate tissue damage or inflammation, making it a critical biomarker for evaluating pleural effusions.
The normal range of LDH in pleural fluid can vary depending on the laboratory, but typically the upper limit is around 200 IU/L (international units per liter). However, it’s essential to compare the LDH levels in the pleural fluid with LDH levels in the blood to classify the effusion correctly.
1] Pleural fluid protein/serum protein ratio > 0.5
2] Pleural fluid LDH/serum LDH ratio > 0.6
3] Pleural fluid LDH level > two-thirds of the upper limit of the normal serum LDH
1] Infections: Bacterial infections such as pneumonia or tuberculosis can elevate LDH levels, indicating inflammation or tissue damage.
2] Malignancies: High LDH may suggest pleural effusion caused by cancer, especially if cancer cells are present in the pleural fluid.
3] Pulmonary Embolism: Blockage of a lung artery can cause damage and inflammation in the lungs, leading to high LDH in the pleural fluid.
4] Autoimmune Conditions: Diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may cause pleuritis, resulting in high LDH levels.
LDH is a useful marker in conjunction with clinical symptoms, imaging tests, and other laboratory findings to confirm an exudative pleural effusion and determine its cause.
In contrast, low LDH levels in pleural fluid typically suggest a transudative pleural effusion, which occurs due to systemic factors rather than localized inflammation or infection.
1] Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): The most frequent cause of transudative pleural effusion.
2] Cirrhosis: Liver disease leading to fluid accumulation.
3] Nephrotic Syndrome: Kidney disorders that cause fluid retention and pleural effusion with low LDH levels.
At Diagnopein, we provide comprehensive LDH Pleural Fluid Test pune using advanced diagnostic technology. We ensures that all tests meet stringent quality benchmarks, delivering accurate and reliable reports every time. We prioritize top-notch hygiene, maintaining a clean and safe environment for all patients. Our team consists of highly experienced and well-trained staff who are dedicated to offering personalized care and guidance throughout the process. Despite our premium services, we believe in affordability, offering competitive pricing to ensure healthcare is accessible to everyone.
There are generally no dietary restrictions before the LDH pleural fluid test. However, it is best to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
The test involves collecting pleural fluid through a procedure called thoracentesis, where a needle is inserted into the pleural space to obtain the fluid. The fluid is then sent to a laboratory for LDH level measurement.
If your LDH levels are abnormal, your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing or evaluations to determine the underlying cause of the pleural effusion.
The risks associated with thoracentesis include infection, bleeding, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), and discomfort at the needle insertion site. However, these complications are relatively rare.
