What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained swelling, fluid buildup, or shortness of breath related to fluid collecting around your lungs, abdomen, or heart. It measures lactate dehydrogenase (LD) in a fluid sample to help figure out whether the fluid is related to infection, inflammation, or other underlying issues. It's often used alongside other fluid tests to better understand what's causing the buildup.

What's included in this test?

This test measures the level of lactate dehydrogenase, an enzyme found in almost all body tissues, present in a fluid sample taken from a body cavity. Elevated LD levels can point to cell damage, inflammation, or other processes happening in the area the fluid came from, which helps narrow down what might be going on.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the LD value and an explanation of what falls in the normal range for body fluid samples. Depending on your result, next steps might include simple lifestyle monitoring, retesting after treatment, or seeking prompt medical care if your levels suggest something urgent. You can download a standard lab report straight from your account at any time, and use the trends feature to track how your levels change if you test again in the future.

How can I naturally support healthy fluid balance?

Staying well hydrated, reducing salty foods, and keeping up with regular movement can help support your body's natural fluid balance. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein supports tissue repair and overall inflammation control. That said, fluid buildup tied to LD elevation usually needs targeted attention, so pair these habits with any follow-up testing recommended for you.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is collected. You'll get a notification once your results are posted, so you can log in and review them at your convenience.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for anyone who has had fluid drained from around the lungs, abdomen, or heart and wants more information about what might be causing it. It's also useful if you're tracking a known fluid-related condition over time and want to see whether levels are changing.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Symptoms like unexplained swelling, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen or chest, shortness of breath, or persistent coughing can all be reasons to consider this test. If you've noticed rapid weight gain from fluid retention or discomfort that doesn't go away, it may be worth checking.

What does high LD in body fluid mean?

A high LD level in a fluid sample often suggests that cells in the area are breaking down faster than normal, which can happen with inflammation, infection, or other tissue-related processes. It doesn't point to one specific cause on its own, so it's usually looked at alongside other fluid markers for a fuller picture. Following any recommended next steps, like additional testing, can help clarify what's driving the result.

What causes high LD in fluid samples?

Common reasons for elevated LD in a body fluid sample include infections, inflammation, tissue injury, or fluid buildup related to other health conditions in that part of the body. Because so many different processes can raise LD, it's typically evaluated together with other fluid characteristics rather than by itself. Retesting or additional fluid analysis can help pin down the specific cause.

How often should I retest?

If you're monitoring an ongoing condition, retesting every few weeks to a couple of months is common, but this depends on your specific situation and how quickly things are changing. If you've had a one-time fluid drainage and your results are in the normal range, you may not need to retest unless symptoms return. Use the trends feature in your account to keep an eye on any changes over time.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

LD Body Fluid Test - Fluid Buildup Evaluation

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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