LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase): normal range and what it means
A general marker of tissue turnover or damage.
Normal range
Adult reference range.
- Low< 140 U/L
- Normal140 – 280 U/L
- High≥ 280 U/L
What it measures
An enzyme present in almost every tissue, so a raised level says something is damaged without saying where. It is non-specific by nature.
What moves it
Released by many tissues, so it is non-specific: exercise, red-cell breakdown, and even a difficult blood draw will raise it.
How to bring it into range
Only useful alongside more specific markers. A rise with a normal blood count and normal liver enzymes usually needs context rather than action.
How fast it responds
Days to weeks.
Also reported as: ldh
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Common questions
- What is a normal LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) level?
- Normal: 140 – 280 U/L. Adult reference range.
- What does a high LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) mean?
- A value above the reference band means LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) is outside the range typical for a healthy adult. A single reading is rarely conclusive on its own — what matters is the trend across draws and the other markers around it, which is why HealthOS reads the whole panel together rather than one number at a time.
- How do I improve my LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase)?
- Only useful alongside more specific markers. A rise with a normal blood count and normal liver enzymes usually needs context rather than action.
More in Cardiac & Muscle
Reference ranges are general-population guidance compiled from common clinical laboratories, not a diagnosis. Lab-to-lab ranges differ. Always read your results with your doctor.