Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
LDH Value: What Does Lactate Dehydrogenase Say About Your Health?
LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) is an enzyme found in virtually all tissues of your body. When cells are damaged, more LDH may be released into the blood. The LDH value can therefore be an indication of tissue damage. As you age, your tissues' repair capacity may change. Your doctor will always review the result alongside other values to get a clear picture. The information on this page is intended as general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always discuss your results with a doctor.
What It Measures
This test counts and classifies the five main types of white blood cells: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Each type plays a distinct role in immune defence, and their relative proportions can indicate specific types of infections, allergic responses, or blood disorders.
Why It Matters
The differential count helps healthcare providers pinpoint the nature of immune responses. For example, elevated neutrophils may suggest a bacterial infection, while increased eosinophils can indicate allergies or parasitic infections. It is a critical tool for diagnosing and monitoring many conditions.
When to Test
A leukocyte differential is typically part of a complete blood count (CBC) and may be ordered during routine health screening, when infection or immune disorder is suspected, or to monitor the effects of treatments such as chemotherapy.
Symptoms
Low Levels
Low counts of specific white blood cell types may be associated with increased susceptibility to infections, recurrent illness, fatigue, and slow wound healing.
High Levels
Elevated counts of specific white blood cell types may be associated with active infection, allergic reactions, inflammatory conditions, or in some cases blood disorders.
Lifestyle Tips
Support your immune system with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Get adequate sleep, manage stress, exercise regularly, and maintain good hygiene. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption to support overall immune health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the different types of white blood cells do?
Neutrophils fight bacterial infections, lymphocytes target viruses and coordinate immune responses, monocytes clean up damaged cells and pathogens, eosinophils respond to parasites and allergies, and basophils play a role in allergic and inflammatory reactions.
Can stress affect my white blood cell differential?
Yes, physical or emotional stress can temporarily alter white blood cell counts and their proportions. Acute stress may increase neutrophils, while chronic stress can affect overall immune balance. Results should be interpreted in context by a healthcare professional.