Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), Ascitic Fluid
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- U/L
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) in ascitic fluid is a key marker used to differentiate between transudative and exudative effusions. In the context of ascites, LDH levels are indicative of the degree of inflammation or tissue damage within the peritoneal cavity. While the Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG) is the gold standard for classifying ascites, ascitic LDH provides complementary data. An ascitic LDH level greater than two-thirds of the upper limit of normal for serum LDH, or an ascitic/serum LDH ratio > 0.6, typically suggests an exudative process such as malignancy, tuberculosis, or secondary bacterial peritonitis (where LDH rises due to neutrophil lysis).
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Why Context Matters
LDH levels can be falsely elevated if the ascitic fluid sample is hemolyzed during collection (traumatic tap). Furthermore, LDH levels can be borderline in cases of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP), requiring careful differentiation from secondary peritonitis caused by a perforated viscus, where LDH levels are usually much higher.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), Ascitic Fluid:
Official Sources
Research & Guidelines
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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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