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Hydroxybutyrate Dehydrogenase and its Function

Hydroxybutyrate is a ketone body, which is produced by the liver during periods of fasting, prolonged exercise, or low carbohydrate intake. It serves as an alternative fuel source for the body, particularly for the brain and other tissues, when glucose availability is limited. The breakdown of hydroxybutyrate to acetoacetate by HBDH is an essential step in the utilization of ketone bodies for energy production. The function of HBDH is primarily linked to energy metabolism and maintaining energy homeostasis in the body. It contributes to the balance between glucose and ketone body metabolism, allowing the body to efficiently switch between different energy sources based on its needs.

Conditions that may require HBDH Alpha - Hydroxybutyrate Dehydrogenase Test

HBDH is not a specific diagnostic marker for a particular disease but can be indicative of various conditions, such as:

Tissue Damage: Increased HBDH levels may be observed in conditions associated with tissue damage, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), liver diseases, muscle injury, or certain types of cancer. In these cases, the elevated levels of HBDH in the blood are reflective of the release of the enzyme from damaged cells.
Hemolysis: Hemolysis, the breakdown of red blood cells, can also lead to increased HBDH levels in the blood. This can occur in conditions like hemolytic anemia, transfusion reactions, or certain infections.
Kidney Disease: Some studies have suggested that elevated HBDH levels may be associated with kidney injury or renal dysfunction. However, further research is needed to establish its clinical significance in this context.

HBDH Alpha - Hydroxybutyrate Dehydrogenase Test Procedure

The Hydroxybutyrate Dehydrogenase test is performed by drawing a blood sample from a vein in your arm. Our phlebotomist, will clean the site with an antiseptic and apply a tourniquet to make the veins more visible. He will then insert a sterile needle into a vein and collect the required amount of blood into a collection tube.