Q: What is the clinical significance of measuring serial serum (Lactate dehydrogenase) LDH level in Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in HIV patients?



Answer: It is of prognostic significance

A rising LDH level in Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in HIV patients despite appropriate treatment predicts a poor prognosis. 



References:

1. Zaman MK, White DA. Serum lactate dehydrogenase levels and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Diagnostic and prognostic significance. Am Rev Respir Dis 1988; 137:796. 

2. Butt AA, Michaels S, Kissinger P. The association of serum lactate dehydrogenase level with selected opportunistic infections and HIV progression. Int J Infect Dis 2002; 6:178.