Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

Lactate dehydrogenase has five different isoenzymes: LDH 1 and LDH2

which are mainly found in myocardium tissues, LDH 3 which exists in
kidney and lung tissues, LDH 4 is found mainly in muscular tissues and
finally LDH 5 that is found in liver and to less extent in muscular tissues.
Clinical significance of LDH. This enzyme may be found elevated in the
following diseases:
1. Myocardial infarction. The activity of LDH 1 and LDH 2 isoenzymes
are highly elevated.
2. Liver diseases. Usually LDH 5 is significantly elevated in hepatitis but in
hepatic cirrhosis, it is slightly increased.
3. Renal disease. LDH3 is elevated slightly in tubular necrosis and
pyelonephritis.
4. Muscular dystrophy. LDH 4 and to less extent LDH 5 are moderately
elevated.
5. Pulmonary embolism. LDH 3 is the isoenzyme that is moderately
elevated in this case.