LDH in pre-eclampsia: what does it mean?

In pre-eclampsia, LDH may be included in blood testing when a clinician is checking for more extensive disease or changes affecting the liver and blood cells. One result cannot diagnose or grade pre-eclampsia by itself. The team may also consider blood pressure, urine protein, platelet count, liver enzymes, kidney function, symptoms, the baby’s growth, and gestational age. A raised result can have causes other than pre-eclampsia, while a result within range does not replace clinical monitoring.

Ask which part of the overall assessment the LDH result represents and whether it is changing over time. Keep antenatal appointments and take medicines exactly as directed. The care plan may involve closer monitoring, hospital observation, medication, or planning birth when that is safer for mother and baby. Depending on the situation, birth may involve induction of labour or caesarean section.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for a severe or persistent headache, visual disturbance, pain under the ribs or in the upper abdomen, sudden swelling, breathlessness, confusion, a seizure, vaginal bleeding, or reduced fetal movement. Do not wait for a scheduled blood test if these symptoms occur.

Why was LDH checked in my case? How does it compare with my platelets, liver tests, kidney tests, and blood pressure? Do I need hospital monitoring? What symptoms should trigger immediate contact?