Serum Lactic Dehydrogenase in Pregnancy

Abstract

Serum lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were determined, in many instances serially, on 40 healthy adults and 300 gravidae utilizing a spectrophotometric technique. Normal pregnancy was found to be accompanied by normal serum LDH levels throughout gestation; however, significant elevations were observed during normal labor in 18% of cases. This latter group was associated with a remarkably increased incidence of complications, especially acute placental infarction. A significant correlation was found between acute placental infarction and elevated serum LDH levels during labor. Abruptio placentae was almost consistently associated with increased levels of serum LDH while other sources of 3d trimester bleeding were usually accompanied by normal values. In addition, abnormal LDH levels were observed in association with septic abortion, hypofibrinogenemia, post-operative cases, some cases of preeclampsia, and in those medical complications of pregnancy in which other authors have noted elevations in the non-pregnant state. The observed elevations were discussed in respect to possible mechanisms of action and possible significance in the evaluation of the obstetric patient.