LDH CSF

This test is used to evaluate the levels of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The lactate dehydrogenase is an enzyme used during the process of converting sugar into energy within the cells. The concentrations of LDH in the cerebrospinal fluid may change in various diseases or conditions like meningitis, primary brain tumors, malignancies of the central nervous system, ischemia of the brain etc.

What is Lactate dehydrogenase?

Lactate dehydrogenase is an enzyme present in many organs and tissues throughout the body, like liver, heart, kidneys, skeletal muscles, lymph tissues, and blood. This enzyme is useful in the production of energy from glucose within the cells. The LDH concentrations in the body fluids like CSF, peritoneal, pleural, pericardial etc may change during conditions like illness, infections, trauma or damage to the cells or the surrounding tissues and can be used to diagnose the severity or the type of illness.

What is CSF (Cerebrospinal fluid)?

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) is a clear colorless fluid produced in the ventricles of the brain. The cerebrospinal fluid circulates around the brain and spinal cord and plays role in providing nutrients, mechanical support to the brain by acting as a cushion to prevent trauma or injury and removes waste products from brain metabolism. The composition of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme can change in the presence of different diseases, conditions or medications. The analysis of cerebrospinal fluid can be used for the diagnosis of these diseases or conditions.

Why is this test performed?

The lactate dehydrogenase CSF test is recommended in individuals if they are experiencing symptoms of hypoxia or lactic acidosis like headaches, fever, loss of consciousness, shortness of breath, paleness, sweating, coma, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, rapid breathing etc.

This test is recommended to patients suffering from diseases or conditions like bacterial or viral meningitis, sepsis, shock, cancers or tumors of the brain, trauma or brain injuries, ischemia of the brain etc. This test may also be recommended to evaluate the progress of the treatment or to evaluate the condition of the patient.

No special preparation is needed for this test. Report the use of any medications or allergies and underlying medical conditions to your doctor before undergoing this test as your doctor may provide appropriate instructions based on your condition.