Differential Diagnosis for Increased LDH

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Hemolysis: This is the most common cause of elevated LDH, as LDH is released from red blood cells during hemolysis. Conditions such as hemolytic anemia can lead to increased LDH levels.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Myocardial Infarction: LDH is found in heart muscle cells, and its levels can rise after a heart attack, especially if the infarct is large.
• Liver Disease: LDH is also present in liver cells, and liver conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis can cause elevated LDH levels.
• Cancer: Certain types of cancer, including lymphoma and leukemia, can cause increased LDH levels due to cell turnover and necrosis.
• Pulmonary Embolism: This condition can cause elevated LDH levels, especially if there is associated tissue necrosis.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Malignant Hyperthermia: This is a rare but life-threatening condition that can cause elevated LDH levels due to muscle breakdown.
• Sepsis: Sepsis can cause elevated LDH levels due to tissue hypoxia and necrosis.
• Severe Trauma: Significant trauma can cause elevated LDH levels due to tissue damage and necrosis.

Rare Diagnoses

• G6PD Deficiency: This genetic disorder can cause hemolysis and elevated LDH levels, especially after exposure to certain medications or foods.
• Thalassemia: Certain types of thalassemia can cause hemolysis and elevated LDH levels.
• Pernicious Anemia: This condition can cause elevated LDH levels due to hemolysis and impaired DNA synthesis.
• Muscle Diseases: Certain muscle diseases, such as muscular dystrophy, can cause elevated LDH levels due to muscle breakdown.